Many Australian homes and buildings built before 1990 contain asbestos in one form or another. Damaged or disturbed asbestos can release harmful fibres into the air, which, if inhaled, can lead to diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. For more hazard free asbestos removal Adelaide, click here.
Only licensed asbestos removal professionals can safely remove and dispose of asbestos. So, before hiring someone, ask these questions:
Safety First
Asbestos can only pose a risk when it is disturbed. This can happen when sanding, cutting, drilling or water blasting is carried out on asbestos-containing material (ACM). Asbestos fibres may then be released into the air and inhaled. This can lead to lung conditions such as asbestosis or mesothelioma. Around 4000 Australians die each year from these diseases, more than double the road toll.
Licensed asbestos removal workers need to have adequate personal protection equipment. This includes a respirator or dust mask fitted for each worker (with two straps), disposable coveralls with a hood, gloves, gumboots and eye protection.
It is also essential to dampen the area and cover it with plastic sheeting. Workers should also be trained on the risks of asbestos and how to work with it safely. Display warning signs, barriers and barricades to isolate the asbestos work area. Also, restrict access and close vents to prevent air-conditioning or fans from blowing dust into the area.
Asbestos Removal Procedures
Although asbestos was banned in 2003, it’s still dangerous to health and remains a problem in old homes, sheds and commercial buildings. It can be found in cladding, fences, eaves and gutters, fencing materials, insulation, ceilings and floor tiles. It can be a health risk if the fibres are disturbed. Engaging a licensed asbestos removalist for any work that involves inspecting and testing potentially asbestos-containing products is essential. For more hazard free asbestos removal Adelaide, click here.
Licensed asbestos removalists must have completed white card training and the CPCCDE3014A Class B course to be licensed to remove friable and designated quantities of non-friable asbestos. The class B licence also requires that you arrange for air monitoring before and during licensed asbestos removal work.
Homeowners wishing to carry out repairs, renovations or demolition on their property should use the find and identify a tool or residential asbestos checklist to check whether the material they are working with contains asbestos. If they are unsure, it is recommended that they engage a licensed removalist to assess the risk and perform the work safely.
Asbestos Removal Equipment
The right equipment for the job will ensure that your lead and asbestos removal is completed correctly. This includes Hepa Vacuums for cleaning up debris and containment areas, Respirators to prevent airborne contaminants from entering your lungs, and Warning Signs and Barrier Tapes to mark dangerous materials.
Asbestos is a serious health risk, and it’s best left to the experts. However, homeowners can undertake some tasks, such as minor maintenance and repair work. It is important to remember that if the job involves disturbing fibro (ACMI) asbestos-containing material, then a licensed asbestos removal licence is required.
Unless the contaminated area is smaller than 10 square metres, air monitoring is not required according to the Code of Practice – How to Remove Asbestos Safely. For jobs more significant than this, a licensed asbestos assessor will require an asbestos assessment and air monitoring will be conducted before and during the licensed removal works. For more hazard free asbestos removal Adelaide, click here.
Asbestos Disposal
Asbestos is still used in many building materials, such as insulation, cement, and roofing. However, it is dangerous if it becomes disturbed and the fibres are inhaled into the lungs. It can cause a variety of diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis.
The only way to dispose of asbestos safely is by using a licensed asbestos removal company. They will double-bag the waste and place it in a special skip that can only be transported to a specific landfill site. The bags must be clearly labelled and have asbestos warnings printed.
Asbestos can be recycled to make non-asbestos products such as insulators and floor tiles. However, it must be wetted to minimise the chance of fibres escaping during the recycling process.