Are you concerned that your home or commercial building has asbestos? Have you ever considered the health and safety risks of asbestos exposure? Asbestos removal and disposal should only be done by a qualified professional, and it's important to know the signs of an unsafe situation.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material with outstanding heat and chemical-resistant qualities which was popularly used in the past for fireproofing, insulation, soundproofing and other uses. For decades, it was used in both residential and commercial building materials.
However, there are numerous health problems associated with extended exposure to the material. Inhaling friable asbestos fibres can lead to significant health consequences that could develop lung cancers and mesothelioma.
People with asbestosis have damaged lungs that have scar tissue, and this can make it difficult to breathe. Long-term exposure to these materials increases the risk of developing lung diseases. Experts recommend a chest X-ray for people who have been exposed to it for a long period of time. This can detect any changes in the lung tissue that may be caused by exposure to the material.
This article will discuss the warning signs of being exposed and how to determine if you are at risk of coming into contact with this hazardous material.
1. Take note of prolonged exposure
Prolonged exposure or prolonged physical contact with a product containing these materials can put you at risk of developing an illness. If you are familiar with the symptoms of its situation, you can stay away from them before any harm occurs. Common signs of increased exposure include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and other respiratory and eye problems.
2. Bind visible fibres
An unsafe situation may cause visible fibres or dust particles on your clothing or other surfaces that should not be ignored. Even if it’s not visible, take extra caution when determining whether a surface or building materials contain it because some deterioration may not be seen externally and needs further investigation by a professional contractor.
3. Inspect damaged areas
Check for areas around your home or workplace that have been recently damaged due to weather events such as storms and floods as these environments are perfect grounds for mould growth which puts people at risk of diseases even though mould does not contain it directly. If there is any sign of damage make sure to inspect those areas more closely as certain parts may contain
These containing materials that are undetectable by sight alone must be removed with caution and extra care. Additionally, aged buildings may contain this material as well so make sure to inspect any older structures frequently in order to ensure safety from raw fibres becoming airborne when disturbed.
4. Avoid DIY solutions when dealing with uncertainty
Some products claim they will safely handle loose it but generally, those solutions do not work correctly compared to using qualified personnel who knows how to handle it correctly.
Do not attempt to remove it yourself as the risk of inhaling or coming into contact with the material is too high. It’s important to hire a qualified professional who can assess the health risks and ensure proper asbestos removal Sydney Wide. Additionally, make sure to wear protective gear such as respirators, gloves, and eye protection when dealing with potentially hazardous materials.
The Environmental Protection Agency has guidelines and safety regulations in place to help protect people from the dangers of exposure. It is essential to follow these guidelines and only use licensed removal companies that are certified by the EPA when removing asbestos material. They are trained professionals who know how to safely remove and dispose of the materials.
They use specialised equipment and take steps to ensure minimal disruption during the process. Knowing the signs of an unsafe situation is key to ensuring the safety of yourself, your family, and anyone else who may come into contact with the material.
