Six Easy Steps to Asbestos Abatement

Asbestos abatement refers to the removal process of asbestos in private properties or commercial buildings. There are numerous ways to conduct an asbestos abatement process. However, the removal procedures are dependent on how and where the asbestos was applied in the structure.

Asbestos abatement is necessary in many structures (particularly older structures) because constant exposure to asbestos fibers can precipitate mesothelioma or other forms of cancer. As a result of their deadly characteristics, asbestos fibers must be handled with extreme caution. The asbestos abatement process, in accordance with the treatment and use of asbestos, must also be administered with the utmost care and responsibility. Contact asbestos lawyers for legal advice and assistance.

As a result of the agent’s inherent characteristics, Asbestos abatement is a dangerous process. That being said, asbestos abatement, if conducted properly, will ensure the occupant or worker a safe living or working environment for years to come. The process of asbestos abatement is as follows:

1. Determine if the area is in need of Asbestos Abatement

The initial step needed for asbestos abatement is to ensure that the removal is appropriate and necessary. To conduct this test, have the underlying area tested for asbestos and determine whether asbestos abatement is mandatory given the fact that the asbestos itself is not dangerous, for only the fibers are toxic.

2. Determine Whether the Asbestos Abatement Procedure Requires a Professional

When you have decided that the area is in need of asbestos abatement, you should determine whether you want to remove the fibers yourself, or hire a professional to do so. The use of a professional for asbestos abatement is highly recommended considering the inherently dangerous characteristics of the fibers. If you decide to remove the asbestos yourself, however, you must assemble a team. By law your team must include at least one asbestos professional. All individuals on the team must be cleanly shaven, as the presence of facial hair will augment the likelihood of inhaling the malignant asbestos fibers.

3. Obtain Government Issued Permits

Following the assembly of a team, you must obtain permits from your local State Government to legally administer the asbestos abatement process. States have specific rules and procedures regarding the obtainment of an asbestos abatement permit. However, all states will require you to sign documents to certify that you will take the mandatory safety measures when removing the asbestos.

4. Assemble the Products Necessary for Asbestos Abatement

You will need safety clothing, goggles, a pry bar, a knife, a water sprayer, asbestos disposal bags, and a breathing apparatus to safely remove asbestos from your home or place of work.

5. Day of the Removal

Dress in the appropriate clothing and put on the breathing apparatus before beginning the asbestos abatement process. Spray the asbestos with water. Once the asbestos is saturated, use a pry bar and knife to remove the asbestos. It is essential to keep the asbestos heavily saturated throughout the process. When the asbestos is removed, place it in the double-sealed asbestos bags.

6. After the Removal

Remove all of the protective clothing and dispose of it along with all the asbestos bags. Once all the asbestos and the protective clothing has been disposed of, it is safe to remove your breathing apparatus. Take the asbestos bags to a local landfill which is specially designed to manage asbestos disposal. Before arriving at the location, you should call the local landfill to ensure they have room for the disposed asbestos, as well as the ability to safely remove the dangerous agent. Once the area is removed of all asbestos, it is suggested that the individual have the location tested again for asbestos.

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