Asbestos Surveying and Removal

2007-04-17 10:41:55

( Business )



Asbestos is any fibrous metamorphic magnesium silicate mineral. Its resistance to fire and heat has led to its numerous uses, such as in historical burial clothing, old electric ovens, brake pads, boiler insulation, and fireproofing ceilings and other building structures, among others.

There are different types of asbestos. The major types include chrysotile (white asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos). Chrysotile is the most commonly used type and is thought to be less harmful due to its lower friability.

Asbestos inhalation causes a number of illnesses, including asbestosis, which is associated with lung fibrosis, and mesothelioma, a type of cancer. Inhalation occurs when asbestos fibers are broken down to minute, unnoticeable materials, which are more mobile and are easily transported into your lungs.

Given the dangers of asbestos inhalation, laws were created to prevent asbestos exposure, specifically in the workplace. Manufacturing of asbestos products have likewise been limited. The original manufacturers of asbestos were driven into bankruptcy due to the alarming number of cases of asbestos-related injury and deaths filed against them.

As an employer and/or owner of non-domestic premises, you have a responsibility to maintain and repair your buildings, and identify and manage asbestos containing materials (ACMs) within your premises. This initially involves asbestos surveying, wherein the building is inspected for any ACMs, typically by a specialist.

Testing follows the asbestos surveying. Samples are taken from presumed ACMs and are tested to see if the materials do contain asbestos. Asbestos testing kits are available in the market. In taking a sample, you should take precautions, such as wearing gloves, turning off all ventilation, wetting the sample material, placing it in a clean, labeled and tightly-sealed container, and covering the sampled area. Polarised light microscopy is then used in the analysis of ACMs by accredited laboratories. Results are usually gathered in a couple of weeks, and are recorded in a register on site.

If tested positive, there are two ways to handle ACMs: asbestos management and asbestos removal. If your ACM is in good condition, it is not necessary that you remove it; however, regular asbestos surveying and labeling should be done for safety. Essential information you should include are the type of asbestos, the risk of releasing fibers, the condition of the material, and updates on succeeding inspections. The ACMs may also be enclosed to minimize exposure.

Asbestos removal is necessary when your ACM is in poor condition and presents as a hazard. Removal is done by professional and licensed contractors, and usually takes years to finish. Your premises may be sealed off to prevent atmospheric contamination in the surrounding areas. To prevent exposure, you may temporarily relocate those who are using the building. If a building with ACMs is to be demolished, the ACMs are first taken out before the building is torn down.

To prevent land contamination with asbestos, ACMs should be disposed of in sealed containers.

Various training and certification programs for asbestos analysts and contractors are available.


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