What should we do if we discover asbestos in our homes? Is it safe? Should we remove it and if we decide to remove it, can we do it ourselves?
While North American law makers have yet to completely ban the use of asbestos in certain products, this material has been banned entirely in 39 countries since 1983, including those in the European Union. All new uses of asbestos were banned in the US by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in July 1989.
In N.America, the use of asbestos has declined since the mid-1970s and early 1980s. Products containing asbestos are regulated by the Asbestos Products Regulation.
The human health effects from asbestos exposure are well documented, including lung cancer, asbestosis and changes in the lining of the lungs (pleural abnormalities).
Asbestos was a popular material used in construction and many other industries. If asbestos fibers are enclosed inside walls there are no significant health risks. Asbestos poses health risks only when fibers are present in the air that people breathe. Today, in North America, several thousand products manufactured and/or imported still contain asbestos. It may be found in many buildings that were built and/or renovated from the 1950s through to the present day.
As a homeowner, you cannot tell if a product contains asbestos just by looking at it. The only way to tell is to have it tested by a laboratory. You should receive advice from an expert before removing materials that may contain asbestos. If you know your home contains asbestos, check regularly for signs of wear or damage.
Remember:
• You can’t see or smell asbestos fibers in the air. The fibers are very small and light. Once they are in the air, they stay in the air. n The effects of being exposed to asbestos take many years to show up.
• Asbestos is only a danger when fibers are made airborne and breathed in.
• As long as the asbestos is in good condition and it is located somewhere where it can’t be easily damaged then it shouldn’t be a risk to you.
The best step for you to take is to hire a professional contractor or consultant familiar with asbestos removal. When hiring, confirm that they are qualified and have insurance that covers the type of asbestos work they will be completing. The person you hire should discuss the specific steps that must be taken to prepare the work area to make sure that:
• The dust is controlled.
• The right personal protective clothing and equipment is used.
• There is appropriate clean-up of the work area and waste removal.
