How to Protect Yourself From The Dangers of Asbestos

Homes and buildings built in the 1970's have construction and building materials containing asbestos as one of its components. At present, it is no longer used in the construction industry, so modern homes and buildings are not a source of risk that comes with exposure to it. Older homes and buildings, however, still poses health hazards due to asbestos.

When the materials containing this silicate mineral are intact, there is no cause for worry. But when it is damaged or broken, asbestos fibers can escape from it into the air. It is airborne fibers that, when inhales, causes tragic health maladies such as lung cancer, among others.

When you have an asbestos-containing material in your home or office building, you should take the following precautionary measures:

1. Avoid Activities that Can Damage Asbestos-Containing Materials

The best way to reduce the risk of being exposed to airborne fibers is to avoid damaging asbestos-containing materials. For instance, you should never saw, sand, scrape, or drill holes on it. Abrasive pads or brushes on power strippers should also be avoided at all cost. Neither try to sand or level asbestos flooring or backing.

2. Make Use of Protective Gears

If you have to remove damaged materials containing this mineral, be sure to equip yourself with protective gears such as respirators, goggles, and gloves. You should also wear a clothing that covers your whole body to make sure that no dust or fiber can get onto you.

3. Do Not Sweep, Dust, or Vacuum the Area with Asbestos

Sweeping, dusting, or otherwise using a vacuum on a debris containing asbestos will result in the release of fibers into the air. The correct method will be to wet mop the area or use a special vacuum designed for use with dust.

4. Keep Away from the Damaged Area

As much as possible, keep any activity in an area with asbestos debris to a minimum. It is much better if any activity in this area should be avoided altogether until such time that this dangerous silicate has been removed. Doing an activity in such an area can disturb the fibers, causing it to become airborne.

5. Consult a Professional with training in Asbestos Handling

If you want your building or home to be remodeled, you should first consult a professional with the proper training in handling such materials. The same goes true when you want to have damaged asbestos materials removed and disposed of.

This article is brought to you by SINGLES.