Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used as an insulator before the 1990s in the manufacturing of consumer, industrial, automotive and construction products. Asbestos materials can get disturbed during renovation or demolition, causing the fibres to be released into the air. Breathing in these asbestos fibres can lead to serious health issues including lung diseases and cancer. Renovating or demolishing a home, built before 1990, requires asbestos testing and analysis. Count on BC Hazmat Inspections for asbestos testing and analysis in Surrey and the Vancouver area. With NIOSH and AHERA certified team, we provide mould and asbestos testing services for our residential and industrial clients.
Test for asbestos if you are:
1. Renovating a Home Built Before the 1990s
Though asbestos use has been regulated, many building materials still contain a minimum quantity of asbestos. Asbestos poses a health risk when inhaled in its dust-like form. It is recommended to carry out asbestos testing before starting the renovation since it can’t be seen with the naked eye. If you suspect the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your home, leave it undisturbed to avoid contamination. Check with a professional asbestos removal company to identify materials that might contain asbestos.
2. Demolishing a Home Built Before the 1990s
Check your home for ACM before considering any partial or full demolition. Any material that is likely to be disturbed or removed during demolition has to be checked to confirm whether it is a friable or non-friable ACM. Construction materials might contain harmless asbestos, but during demolition, contained fibres will be distributed in the air leading to harmful health effects. More than the threshold amounts of regulated ACM need to be removed before demolishing.
3. Removing Debris After a Disaster or an Accident
Cleaning debris after a disaster can be a significant risk. For a home or a condominium built before the 1990s, avoid disturbing the building materials that might contain ACMs.
4. Buying or Renting a Home
Before renting or buying a new home, inspect the home for asbestos to understand the type and amount of asbestos present. Though it is difficult to spot asbestos yourself, ask your real estate agent regarding the asbestos materials used in construction. If you plan to buy a property containing asbestos, take help from a professional technician to look for the extent of asbestos on your property. Also regularly check old buildings for friable asbestos as insulation can easily crumble over time. Look for damaged pipe insulation or flooring with potential ACM. Simple maintenance and repair can disturb asbestos fibres and it might become a hazard. Re-inspect older buildings every 6 to 12 months for ACM.
Asbestos testing protects your home and business investment to ensure there is no presence of asbestos fibres on site. Professional analysis for asbestos will protect you from serious health issues. BC Hazmat Inspections provides hazmat inspections and analytical lab services for asbestos testing for home and business owners. We also provide mould testing in Vancouver and the surrounding areas.
Contact us today for asbestos testing and hazmat consultations.
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