Professional Asbestos Removal for a Safe and Clean Environment
Asbestos is a hazardous mineral fiber known for its heat resistance and insulating properties. Prolonged exposure to its fibers can lead to serious health risks, including lung diseases like lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Due to their harmful effects, the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials must be handled by trained professionals following specific safety protocols.
This article will explore the dangers associated with asbestos exposure and its health effects. It will also examine the methods and safety protocols used by asbestos removal contractors during removal and abatement processes.
Common Asbestos-Related Dangers
Respiratory Issues
Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to various respiratory problems. Asbestos exposure is linked to the development of asbestosis, a chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue. This can cause breathing difficulties and respiratory failure over time.
Lung Cancer
Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs, eventually leading to the formation of cancerous tumors. Smokers who are exposed to asbestos have a particularly high risk of developing lung cancer.
Mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The latency period for this disease can be decades, with symptoms often not appearing until it has reached an advanced stage.
Asbestos-Related Pleural Disease (ARPD)
ARPD encompasses various non-cancerous lung conditions caused by asbestos exposure, including pleural plaques, thickening, and effusion. While these conditions may not be life-threatening, they can cause discomfort and impair lung function.
Gastrointestinal and Other Cancers
Asbestos exposure has been associated with an increased risk of developing cancers of the esophagus, stomach, colon, and other organs. Although less common than lung-related diseases, these cancers are still significant health risks for individuals exposed to asbestos.
Secondary Exposure Risks
Before the dangers of asbestos were fully known, individuals who lived with asbestos workers or who regularly came into contact with asbestos-contaminated environments, faced health risks through secondary exposure. Fibers can cling to clothing, skin, and hair, potentially exposing family members and others in the vicinity to asbestos dust.
Methods and Protocols Employed by Asbestos Removal Contractors
The following methods and protocols help asbestos removal contractors effectively mitigate the risks associated with exposure:
Risk Assessment
An environmental hygienist will evaluate the site, and conduct sampling to determine the extent of contamination and location of asbestos, and make recommendations for removal or abatement. A tailored removal plan will ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to minimize risks, protect occupants and the environment, and guard against hazards to workers. The hygienist may conduct final clearance sampling to confirm that the asbestos has been safely and properly removed.
Containment
Containment prevents the spread of asbestos fibers and minimizes the risk of exposure to workers and the public. Asbestos removal contractors use containment barriers, such as heavy plastic sheeting and negative air pressure systems, to seal off the area and isolate asbestos-containing materials. This eliminates the potential for airborne dispersion and secondary contamination.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
During remediation activities, PPE is essential for minimizing worker exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. Contractors provide workers with appropriate PPE, including respirators with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, disposable coveralls, gloves, and protective eyewear. Proper training, fit-testing and a medical evaluation for wearing a respirator must be completed before any worker can be exposed to an asbestos work environment.
Wet Methods
Wet methods suppress the release of airborne fibers and minimize the risk of exposure to workers and the surrounding environment. Asbestos removal contractors utilize misting or spraying techniques to completely wet down the asbestos-containing materials before any removal. Surfactants are added to water to promote penetration into the material and to prevent fiber dispersion into the air.
Careful Handling and Disposal
After removal, asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are handled with extreme care to prevent fiber release and minimize the risk of exposure to the environment. Contractors adhere to strict protocols for containing, labeling, and transporting asbestos waste to a permitted disposal facility.
Decontamination Procedures
After completing asbestos removal tasks, workers undergo procedures to remove any fibers adhering to their PPE or clothing. Decontamination units have showers and clean changing areas to facilitate the safe removal and disposal of contaminated PPE. These are critical for protecting workers, preventing secondary exposure risks, and ensuring that asbestos removal projects are conducted safely.
Choose Waco for Safe and Effective Asbestos Abatement Services
At Waco, we offer comprehensive asbestos removal services conducted by trained and licensed professionals. We are dedicated to safely removing contaminated materials from residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial settings. We adhere to strict safety standards and regulations. With over 40 years of experience, along with many proven techniques for proper removal of asbestos, Waco can clearly demonstrate our commitment to protect public health and the environment.
Contact us today to learn more about our services, or request a quote now!