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How to Identify Asbestos In the past century asbestos was used to make a myriad of products stronger, more resistant to fire, and cheaper. But exposure to asbestos in the air fibers could cause lung diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Certain diseases have a long latency period. This means it is difficult for people to identify the problem before it's too late. Asbestos Identification Asbestos can be described as a variety of minerals that are naturally occurring. They were previously used in building materials because of their fire retardant, corrosion-resistant and insulation properties. It could, however, pose health risks when the microscopic fibers are inhaled. This could lead to illnesses such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. These diseases can take a long time or even decades to show their symptoms. They are often interpreted as flu-like symptoms. This is the reason it's so important for people to be aware of how to recognize asbestos. Medical tests that check for lung disease are the most commonly used method to determine if you have asbestos. These tests usually consist of physical examinations, chest X-rays and pulmonary function tests. These tests aren't sufficient to identify asbestos-related diseases. They must be combined with a detailed patient history which includes information about a person's work, residence, and the environment in which they live. Asbestos is found in a variety of building products and materials, such as cement, paints and floor tiles. It can also be found in insulation, doors partitions, cladding and Artex. However, asbestos is difficult to identify because the fibers that pose danger are so small and light that they can easily float in the air and then be breathed in without being observed. They don't have any distinct smells either. If you suspect that a product may contain asbestos, you can take an atom of it. This should only be performed by a qualified professional, as removing asbestos is very complex and requires special equipment. Patch the sample with duct tape to stop the release of fibers and take it to an asbestos analysis laboratory certified by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). The NVLAP website provides a list of accredited labs. Certain categories of people are at a greater danger of accidentally touching asbestos. These include plumbers, construction workers, and electricians as they are likely to see asbestos-containing products during maintenance and renovations. Any person who works in these fields must take an asbestos awareness course to ensure that they are aware of the risks and know how to take the proper precautions. Take Samples A sample of the suspected material is required to conduct asbestos testing or inspection. The sample can be collected by a qualified asbestos consultant or by the homeowner, but careful consideration should be taken to minimize the production of dust containing asbestos that is airborne throughout the collection of the sample, and during cleaning up afterwards. The person who is taking the sample will typically need an air vacuum cleaner that is HEPA-filtered along with a spray bottle of water and disposable coveralls to provide protection. While performing the task, they should wear a respirator that is compliant with AS/NZS1716 : 2003 Respiratory protection device. It is best to take samples on a day that is not too windy. Also, turn off passaic asbestos lawsuit or heating system. This will minimize the exposure of asbestos-containing airborne particles. When collecting the sample, make sure the area is completely sealed off and that no children or pets are allowed to get into the. Wet down the area to be sampled with the help of a damp rag. Then, clean all equipment and tools used once the sampling has been completed. Place the rag into a plastic bag and label it as contaminated waste, and dispose of it at an approved asbestos disposal facility. Place the bag that is resealable and the sample inside a second plastic bag. Seal it all before declaring it asbestos waste. The area will be cleaned once again, and place a plastic drop sheet over it to collect any released fibres. Asbestos is usually collected using a pre-assembled pump as well as a cassette system. It is crucial to ensure that the cassette does not get stuffed with dust. This could block the fibres and alter the results. If the sample is taken in an area with high levels of nonfibrous dust may be necessary to utilize an air sample with a smaller volume. The epidemiological research found that asbestos fibres that are short could also cause mesothelioma, or lung cancer. This indicates that size is not the only factor that influences the pathogenicity of asbestos fibres. Other factors like chemical properties, polarization and dispersion staining, as well as the time required to etch are also a factor. Identifying Professionals When asbestos fibers are displaced or disturbed they can be airborne. Inhaling these tiny fibers can cause lung disease. They can cause mesothelioma or asbestosis, as well as other respiratory and neurological problems. The latency period for many symptoms can vary between 20 and 50 years after exposure. Asbestos that is not disturbed does not pose any health risks, but when insulation, shingles and flooring are damaged or deteriorate and release harmful fibers. This can occur during a renovation or demolition project or even during regular home usage or aging. If you are planning to remodel your home, you should consult local health or environmental officials to determine if the structure contains asbestos-containing materials. If asbestos-containing materials are found to be asbestos-containing, it must be inspected by an asbestos-certified inspector before any work can begin. If you are renovating an older house, ensure that the contractors you hire have the appropriate credentials. They should be able to provide an asbestos report and survey that includes an assessment of the condition of any ACM (asbestos-containing material) and their friability. The survey should also specify whether the contractor will remove or leave the ACM intact. Minor repairs may be possible on certain ACM however only a trained professional who knows the techniques for safely handling asbestos should attempt these repairs. No matter what kind of repair you make the area should be sealed off from the rest of your home. Any contaminated clothing or equipment should be put in plastic bags and labeled with a warning in order to prevent cross-contamination. Professionals can seal ACM or cover it to stop fibers from being released into the atmosphere. Sealing (encapsulation), also known as encapsulation, involves treating the material in a way which binds and covers the fibers to prevent them from become airborne. This can be done on insulated pipes or to cover old shingles. Professionals are also able to physically remove ACM. The process begins by wetting the materials so they can be cut or scraped with many tools without releasing the dangerous fibers. Then, they place the materials in sturdy, leak-proof air-tight containers for safe disposal. Repairing or removing Asbestos Asbestos is abrasive to corrosion and heat, which has made it an extremely useful ingredient in thousands of products including walls, fireproofing materials and auto brakes. However, asbestos is an irritant that can cause respiratory issues when the fibers are inhaled. Typically, these fibers are trapped in the lungs. They could cause scarring and inflammation of the tissues, which can hinder breathing and lead to serious health issues. Asbestos can be found in numerous areas of a house which includes roof shingles cement pipes as well as floor and ceiling tiles, and joint compound that is made up of asbestos. It's important to check these areas frequently for tears, abrasions or damage. If the material is slightly damaged, it could be safe to touch or disturb. However should the material be in need of repair or you are planning to make changes to your home that could disturb it, you should seek out an asbestos expert. These experts can carry out an inspection visually and also take samples. They can also give you advice on what corrections are required and who's qualified. It is recommended that only these experts handle asbestos. Some of these professionals are trained in specific products, and they are the only ones who should do corrective work on them. You should also contact your state's local Health Department or Regional Office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to find out about asbestos training programs offered in your region. Also, be aware that there are firms which falsely claim they specialize in asbestos removal. These firms can be dangerous since they encourage removals that are not needed or conduct them improperly and increase the risk of release of harmful asbestos fibers. The American Lung Association does NOT endorse these companies. It is essential to do your research thoroughly before hiring an asbestos professional to ensure that it is fully insured and certified. You can also ask for references from previous clients, and also confirmation of accreditation and insurance coverage. You should also consult your local or state health and environmental agency for the appropriate steps to follow if intend to remodel your home.