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How to Identify AsbestosIn the last century, asbestos was used to make thousands of items stronger, more resistant to fire and less expensive. Inhaling asbestos fibers in the air can lead to lung disease such as asbestosis or mesothelioma.Some of these diseases have a long period of latency. This makes it difficult to spot the problem before it's too late.Identifying AsbestosAsbestos is an assortment of minerals that are naturally occurring. They were once utilized in building materials due to their anti-corrosive, fire-proof and insulation properties. However, it could cause health hazards when the tiny fibers are inhaled. This can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. These diseases can take years or even decades to manifest their symptoms. They are often misinterpreted as flu-like symptoms. It's vital that people understand how to identify the asbestos.The most common way to detect asbestos is via medical tests that check for lung disease. These tests include a physical exam as well as chest X-rays and lung function tests. These tests aren't enough to determine the presence of asbestos-related illnesses. They must be combined with a detailed patient history that includes details about the patient's job, home, as well as the culture of their environment.It is possible to find asbestos in a broad assortment of building products and materials such as cement products, flooring tiles, paints, adhesives, Artex, insulation, doors, partitions, and cladding. However, asbestos is difficult to recognize because the fibers that pose danger are so small and light that they can easily float in the air and inhale without being detected. They don't also emit distinctive smells.You can take a small sample if you suspect that a material contains asbestos. This should be done by a trained professional, since removing asbestos is extremely complex and requires special equipment. Send the sample to an accredited asbestos analysis lab through the National Voluntary Laboratory Assessment Program (NVLAP). A list of laboratories can be found on the NVLAP web site.It's quite easy to alter the asbestos in a way and the chance of doing this can be significantly higher for certain groups of people. These include plumbers, construction workers and electricians, as they are most likely to come across asbestos-containing items during renovations and maintenance. It's a good idea to encourage anyone working in these fields to complete an asbestos awareness training course so that they understand the dangers and take the correct precautions.Take SamplesFor asbestos testing or inspection an asbestos sample of the suspected material is required. This sample can either be taken by an asbestos expert or a homeowner. However it is essential to be careful not to create asbestos-containing dust that is airborne during the taking and cleaning. The person taking the sample will usually require a HEPA-filtered air vacuum cleaner as well as a spray bottle filled with water, and disposable coveralls for protection. When performing the task, they must wear a respirator that is compliant with AS/NZS1716 : 2003 Respiratory protective device. It is best to carry out the sample collection on a non stormy day. Also, ensure that cooling or heating systems are turned off, to reduce the release of any airborne asbestos particles.When collecting the sample, make sure that the area is sealed off and that no pets or children can enter. Clean the area to be sampled with the help of a damp rag. Then, wipe all tools and equipment used once the sampling is completed. Place the rag into an unmarked plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste and dispose of it in an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the re-sealable bag containing the sample inside a second plastic bag, and seal it before marking it as asbestos waste. Place a dropsheet of plastic over the area that needs be cleaned, and then wet it again. This will catch any fibres released.Asbestos samples are typically collected with the help of a pump and cassette system that is pre-assembled. It is essential to ensure that the cassette is not filled with dust since this could block the fibres on the filter and create an unintended bias in the outcome. If the sample is taken from an area that has high levels of non-fibrous dust, the smaller volume of air could be used.The epidemiological studies revealed that asbestos fibres that are short can also cause mesothelioma and lung cancer. This shows that size is not the only factor that affects the pathogenicity of asbestos fibers. Other parameters like chemical property, polarization dispersion staining, as also etching time are also involved.Identifying ProfessionalsWhen asbestos fibers are disturbed or spread they can end up becoming airborne. These microscopic fibers, when inhaled, can cause lung diseases. These microscopic fibers could cause mesothelioma or asbestosis as well in other neurological and respiratory conditions. The time to develop symptoms can vary from 20 to 50 years after exposure.Undisturbed asbestos does not pose any health risks, but when the materials used for insulation, shingles and flooring get damaged or wear out they may release harmful fibers. This can occur during a renovation or demolition project, and also during normal home use or the aging process.If you're planning to remodel your home, inquire with your local health or environmental officials whether the building has asbestos. If asbestos-containing materials are found to be asbestos-containing, it must be inspected by an accredited asbestos inspector prior to any work being started.When you're planning to renovate an older home Make sure that any contractors you hire have the proper credentials. They must be able to provide an asbestos report and a survey that includes an assessment on the condition of any ACM (asbestos-containing material) and their friability. The survey should state whether or the contractor will be removing the ACM.Minor repairs can be made on some ACM. However, only a professional certified in asbestos handling safely is able to tackle these. No matter what type of repair, the site should be kept separate from the rest of the home and any equipment or clothing should be put in plastic bags and labeled with a warning so as to avoid cross-contamination.Professionals can seal ACM or cover it to prevent fibers from being released into the atmosphere. Sealing (encapsulation) involves treating the material with a substance that binds or coats fibers to keep them from being airborne. This can be applied to insulated piping or to cover old shingles.Professionals can also physically remove ACM from a building. cambridge asbestos law firm is accomplished by wetting the materials so they can be cut or scraped using many tools, without releasing harmful fibers. The material is then put in airtight, sturdy containers that are leakproof.Removing or replacing AsbestosAsbestos is invulnerable to heat and corrosion, which has made it an extremely useful ingredient in many different products like wallboard, fireproofing insulation and auto brakes. But asbestos is also a toxic material that can cause respiratory problems if fibers are inhaled. These fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring of the lungs. This could affect breathing and lead to serious health issues.Asbestos is found in many parts of a house including roof shingles, cement pipes and floor and ceiling tiles, as well as joint compound made of asbestos. Check these areas for water damage, abrasions, or tears. If the material is only slighty damaged, it might be safe to touch or disturb. However, if the material is in need of repair or you plan to make changes to your home that might disturb it, you should consult with an asbestos professional.These experts can conduct an inspection in person and collect samples. They can also give you suggestions on what adjustments are required and who is certified. It is essential to let the experts handle your asbestos. These professionals are trained in specific products and should only be allowed to correct them.You can also contact your state's local Health Department or Regional Office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to learn about asbestos training programs available in your area. Also, be aware that there are firms that falsely claim to specialize in asbestos removal. These firms could be dangerous because they promote unnecessary removals or make them in a way that isn't properly done which increases the risk of the release of harmful fibers.The American Lung Association does not endorse these companies. Before hiring an asbestos professional it is essential to conduct a thorough investigation of the company to ensure that it's certified and insured. You can also request references from past clients, as along with proof of accreditation and insurance coverage. It is also recommended to examine your state's or local environmental and health departments to determine what guidelines should be followed when planning to make any changes in your home.