Why Professional Abatement is Critical
Asbestos, once widely used in building materials for its durability and heat resistance, is now known to be a significant health hazard. Found in many older homes and buildings, asbestos can pose serious risks if disturbed, yet some property owners may overlook the dangers until it’s too late. Ignoring asbestos is not only a risk to your health but can also lead to costly remediation and legal consequences down the line. In this blog, we’ll explain why professional asbestos abatement is critical and the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, fibrous crystals. Its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties made it a popular material in construction throughout the 20th century. However, over time, research revealed that exposure to asbestos fibers could lead to severe health issues, which is why its use has been heavily regulated and, in many cases, banned.
Asbestos can still be found in a variety of building materials, particularly in older properties. Common materials include:
• Insulation (particularly around pipes, boilers, and ducts)
• Roofing and siding shingles
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Ceiling tiles and textured paints
• Cement products
• Drywall and joint compounds
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
The real danger of asbestos arises when the material is disturbed, causing its fibers to become airborne. Once inhaled, asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, leading to several life-threatening illnesses. The diseases associated with asbestos exposure often take years or even decades to develop, which makes early detection and prevention crucial.
Here are the major health risks of asbestos exposure:
1. Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum). It’s almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma has a poor prognosis and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because of its slow development.
2. Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by the scarring of lung tissue due to asbestos fibers. Over time, asbestosis leads to breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, and, in severe cases, heart failure. While not cancerous, asbestosis significantly reduces lung function and can worsen over time.
3. Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure is a well-known cause of lung cancer. Individuals exposed to asbestos, especially those who smoke, have a much higher risk of developing lung cancer than non-exposed individuals. Lung cancer caused by asbestos can develop decades after initial exposure, making it particularly dangerous for those who have unknowingly lived or worked in contaminated environments.
4. Other Respiratory Issues
Exposure to asbestos fibers can also lead to other respiratory issues, including pleural effusions (fluid buildup around the lungs), pleural plaques (thickened patches on the lung lining), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Why Professional Asbestos Abatement is Critical
Given the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure, it’s clear that asbestos should never be ignored or handled without proper expertise. Here’s why professional asbestos abatement is essential:
1. Proper Identification
Asbestos isn’t always easy to identify. It’s often mixed with other materials and may not be visible to the naked eye. Professionals are trained to inspect properties thoroughly and safely collect samples for laboratory analysis. They can pinpoint exactly where asbestos is present and determine the best course of action.
2. Safe Removal
Attempting to remove asbestos yourself is extremely dangerous and can release harmful fibers into the air. Professional asbestos abatement teams use specialized equipment, protective gear, and containment measures to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. This minimizes the risk of exposure to both the workers and anyone in the vicinity.
3. Compliance with Regulations
Asbestos removal is heavily regulated by agencies like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines, lawsuits, and potential harm to building occupants. Certified asbestos abatement professionals are knowledgeable about local, state, and federal regulations, ensuring that all work is performed legally and safely.
4. Protecting Future Occupants
If asbestos is not properly removed, future renovations or even everyday wear and tear could disturb the materials and release fibers into the air. Professional abatement ensures that your building is safe for current and future occupants, reducing long-term health risks.
When to Call a Professional
If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, it’s crucial to take action before any construction, renovation, or demolition work begins. Any disturbance to asbestos-containing materials can release fibers into the air and increase exposure risks.
Here are a few situations when you should definitely contact a professional asbestos abatement service:
• Before Renovations: If your home or building was constructed before the 1980s, have it inspected for asbestos before starting any renovation project.
• After a Disaster: Fires, floods, or structural collapses can disturb asbestos materials, making it critical to call a professional for inspection and cleanup.
• If Materials are Damaged: If you notice damaged insulation, tiles, or other materials that may contain asbestos, don’t attempt to remove or repair them yourself. Call a professional immediately.
Safeguarding Your Health with Professional Asbestos Abatement
Asbestos may no longer be used in new construction, but its presence in older buildings remains a significant health risk. Ignoring asbestos can lead to serious health problems that develop over time, affecting you and those around you. The safest and most effective way to handle asbestos is to call a certified abatement professional who can safely remove the materials and ensure that your property is free from danger.
If you suspect asbestos in your property, don’t wait. Contact Regional Environmental Demolition Inc. (R.E.D.) at (716) 284-3366 for professional asbestos inspection and abatement services in Western New York. Protect your health and ensure your building is safe.
