Pocatello, like in other cities in Idaho, asbestos still exists within structures of many homes. Once a popular material in construction for its fire resistance and insulating properties, asbestos has long been revealed as a hazardous substance responsible for severe health issues.
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is why safe and effective removal of asbestos from homes is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll look at essential steps and precautions for safe asbestos removal ensuring both you and your loved ones are safe and sound.
Key Takeaways:
- Removing asbestos from your property is a critical step toward ensuring a safe environment for your family.
- Engaging qualified professionals to conduct the removal process is the only way to mitigate the risks associated with asbestos effectively.
Table of Contents
Asbestos and Where to Find It
Before embarking on asbestos removal, it’s essential to understand what asbestos is and where it might be found in a home. Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals used extensively in building materials before the 1980s, such as insulation, floor tiles, roof shingles, and piping. If your home was constructed or renovated before this time, there’s a high chance it contains asbestos-contaminated materials (ACMs).
Legal and Safety Regulations
Asbestos removal is heavily regulated. Most countries have strict laws about how, when, and who can remove asbestos.
In the United States, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) set guidelines and regulations to protect workers and residents from asbestos exposure during removal processes.
Before any removal, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these regulations and ensure compliance to avoid legal repercussions and ensure safety.
Professional Assessment
The first step in safe asbestos removal is to have your property professionally assessed by a certified asbestos inspector. The inspector will take samples of suspected materials and have them analyzed in a lab to confirm the presence of asbestos. If asbestos is found, the inspector will assess the condition of the materials (friable or non-friable) and recommend the best course of action.
Selecting the Right Contractor for Asbestos Removal
Asbestos removal is not a DIY project. It requires professional handling by a certified asbestos abatement company. When selecting a contractor, verify their credentials, experience, and compliance with state and federal regulations.
Preparation and Containment
Once you choose a contractor, the next step is preparation and containment. This involves sealing off the work area from the rest of the property to prevent asbestos fibers from escaping into the air and contaminating other areas.
Removal Process
During the removal process, workers wear protective clothing and respirators to protect themselves from inhaling asbestos fibers. The asbestos-containing materials are carefully wetted down to prevent dust from becoming airborne. These materials are then removed, sealed in leak-tight containers, and properly labeled before being disposed of in designated hazardous waste facilities.
Post-Removal Cleanup and Clearance
After the asbestos has been removed, a thorough cleanup of the area is conducted using HEPA vacuum cleaners. Following cleanup, a post-removal asbestos inspection and clearance testing is essential to ensure that the area is completely free of asbestos.
Contact Eco Shield for Professional Asbestos Services in Pocatello
If you’re searching for quality asbestos abatement Pocatello professionals, Eco Shield Restorations is the company to call. As AHERA-certified professionals, we conduct asbestos testing and abatement according to the relevant AHERA and ASHERA regulations to guarantee the safety of your loved ones. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
