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How to Identify Asbestos In the last century asbestos was used in thousands of products to make them stronger, more resistant to fire and less expensive. However, exposure to asbestos-containing airborne fibers can cause lung diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Certain diseases have a long period of latency. It can be difficult to recognize the presence of a problem until it is too long gone. Asbestos Identification Asbestos is a variety of minerals that are naturally occurring. They were previously used in building materials because of their corrosion-resistant, fireproof and insulation properties. It can, however, cause health hazards when the tiny fibers are inhaled. This is often the cause of diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma. The symptoms of these diseases do not show up until years, or years after the initial exposure. They're often confused with flu-like symptoms. It's vital that people understand how to recognize asbestos. Medical tests to check for lung diseases are the most popular method to detect asbestos. The tests typically consist of a physical examination or chest Xrays as well as pulmonary function tests. However, asbestos-related ailments can't be diagnosed with these tests alone, as they must be paired with a thorough medical history that looks at a person's work, home and cultural environment. Asbestos can be found in a wide range of building materials and products, including cement, paints, and floor tiles. It can also be found in doors, insulation, partitions, cladding, and Artex. Asbestos can be difficult to spot because the fibers are small and light. They are able to effortlessly glide through the air and inhale without anyone not even realizing. They don't also emit distinct smells. You can collect a small sample if you suspect an item is contaminated with asbestos. This should be done by a qualified professional, because the process of removing asbestos is complex and requires specialized equipment. Send the sample to an accredited asbestos analysis lab through the National Voluntary Laboratory Assessment Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides a list of accredited laboratories. Certain groups of people are at a greater risk of accidentally causing damage to asbestos. This includes construction workers, plumbers and electricians, since they are likely to see asbestos-containing items during renovations and maintenance. Anyone working in these areas should complete an asbestos awareness course to ensure that they are aware of the dangers and know how to take the necessary precautions. Take Samples For asbestos testing or inspection, a sample of the material that is suspect is required. The sample could be taken by a qualified asbestos consultant or by the homeowner, but careful consideration should be taken to reduce the amount of dust that contains asbestos both during the collection of the sample, and during cleaning up after. The person who collects the sample will usually require a HEPA-filtered air cleaner as well as a spray bottle filled with water, and disposable coveralls for protection. They must also wear a respirator which conforms to AS/NZS1716.2003 Respiratory safety devices when performing the task. It is best to carry out the sample collection on a not windy day, and ensure that heating or cooling systems are turned off, as this will minimise the release of any asbestos-containing airborne particles. When collecting the sample, ensure that the area is closed off and that pets or children are not permitted in. Clean the area to be sampled with a damp rag, and clean all equipment and tools used once the sampling has been completed. Place the rag in a plastic bag, label it as asbestos waste, and dispose of it in an asbestos-free facility that is approved by the government. Place the resealable bag and the sample in a second plastic bag. Seal it all together before labeling it as asbestos waste. Make sure to rinse the area to be cleaned up again and place a plastic drop sheet over it, to catch any fibres that are released. Asbestos samples are typically collected by using a pump and cassette system that is pre-assembled. It is important that the cassette does not get filled with dust as this may obscure the fibres on the filter and cause an imbalance in the results. If the sample is collected in an area with high levels of dust that is non-fibrous, smaller volumes of air can be used. While the majority of studies focus on long asbestos fibers, the epidemiological studies have shown that exposure to short asbestos fibers may cause mesothelioma or lung cancer too. This indicates that size is not the only factor influencing the pathogenicity of asbestos fibres. Other parameters like chemical property, polarization dispersion staining, as also the time to etch are also involved. Identifying Professionals Asbestos fibers can become airborne when they are disturbed, or spread. These tiny fibers, if inhaled, can cause lung diseases. They could cause mesothelioma, asbestosis or other neurological and respiratory problems. The latency period for many symptoms can range from 20 to 50 years after exposure. Undisturbed asbestos does not pose the risk of health hazards, but when the materials used for insulation, shingles and flooring are damaged or deteriorate and release harmful fibers. This can happen during a demolition or renovation project, as well as during normal home use or when the material ages. If you're planning to remodel your home, ask your local health or environmental officials if the building contains asbestos. If asbestos is found then it should be examined by an asbestos-certified inspector prior to beginning any work. If you're planning to renovate an older house, ensure that any contractors you employ are licensed and certified. 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 also specify whether the contractor plans to remove or leave the ACM intact. Minor repairs might be possible with certain ACM and other ACMs, but only a professional trained in techniques for safely handling asbestos should attempt these repairs. Whatever repair is done the area should be protected from the rest of your home. Any clothing or equipment should be put in plastic bags and marked with a warning in order to prevent cross-contamination. district of columbia asbestos lawsuit can cover or seal ACM to prevent it from release of fibers into the air. Sealing (encapsulation), also known as encapsulation, is the process of treating the material in a manner that binds and seals the fibers so they don't become airborne. This can be done to insulated piping or to cover old shingles. Professionals are also able to physically remove ACM. The materials are then soaked to allow them to be cut using various tools without releasing dangerous fibers. Then they place the material in durable, leak-proof and air-tight containers that are safe for disposal. Repairing or removing Asbestos Asbestos is invulnerable to heat and corrosion This has made it an extremely useful component in thousands of products such as wallboards, fireproofing insulation and auto brakes. Asbestos can be a poisonous material that can cause respiratory problems when fibers are inhaled. In most cases, these fibers end up trapped in the lungs and can lead to tissue inflammation and scarring, which can make breathing difficult and lead to serious health issues. Asbestos can be found in numerous parts of a house which includes roof shingles cement pipes as well as floor and ceiling tiles and joint compound that contains asbestos. Check these areas for water damage or abrasions. If the material is only slightly damaged, it could be safe to touch or even disturb. If the material needs to be repaired or replaced, or you are planning to make changes to your home that could cause disturbance to it, you must consult an asbestos expert. These experts can conduct an inspection in person and collect samples. They can also advise you on the corrections that must be made and who is qualified to perform them. It is best to let professionals handle asbestos. They are trained in specific products and should be permitted to correct them. In addition, to talking with an asbestos expert who is trained, you should contact your local or state health department or regional office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for information about asbestos-related training programs in your area. Beware of firms that claim to have a specialization in asbestos removal. These firms can be hazardous since they encourage removals that are not needed or make them in a way that isn't properly done and increase the risk of release of harmful asbestos fibers. The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. It is crucial to conduct a thorough investigation of the company before hiring an asbestos expert to ensure that the company is properly insured and certified. You can also request references from former clients as and proof of insurance coverage and accreditation. It is also recommended that you check with your state or local health and environmental agencies to determine the procedure that are required if you're planning to make any changes within your home.