Asbestos is a material that was once very popular in the building and construction industries because of its excellent fire-retardant and insulating properties. Unfortunately, its health effects were not discovered until the 20th century and since then, it has been banned from use in most countries because of the dangerous medical conditions it can cause if inhaled or ingested by humans. This includes asbestosis, an inflammatory lung disease that can lead to scarring of the lungs and even cancer later on in life if exposed to high concentrations of the asbestos dust over a long period of time.
1) If There is History of Exposure
If you or someone living with you has a history of exposure to asbestos, it’s particularly important to hire a professional. Most of us have little-to-no way of knowing whether we’ve had contact with asbestos, and so you can get tested for peace of mind—or if there is any concern about your risk for developing mesothelioma later on. Be aware that testing does not necessarily mean removing asbestos: sometimes testing is necessary to ensure that a building or area is safe; sometimes it isn’t because there was never any danger. It depends on what’s been found.
2) For Any Renovation or Improvement Project
Renovations, repairs, or additions to older buildings can expose a person to asbestos if asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed. Certain types of work trigger a requirement for professional inspection and analysis. This is usually considered to be any project involving removal of more than 3 linear feet of ACM material or where there is visible disturbance of more than 3 linear feet (or 6 square feet) of ACM materials on interior surfaces or 30 linear feet (or 300 square feet) on exterior surfaces.
3) If the Structure Is Changing in Appearance
While asbestos is dangerous, you don’t need to be worried if you are planning a simple home remodel or minor repair project. You can do these yourself with no need for professional Asbestos testing services NYC. However, if your building plans involve significant reconstruction, or there will be tearing down of walls or pipes that lead to hidden areas of asbestos (such as attic spaces), you should probably consider calling in a professional asbestos abatement team. They are specially trained and equipped to deal with situations like these.
4) If You Are Starting a Business
Although many of us are intrigued by earning a living from home, starting your own business isn’t for everyone. Consider these things before diving into a startup: What if I don’t know how to do what I want to do? What if I can’t afford it? What if no one buys my product or service? Also consider these things: Can you commit yourself 100 percent to making your business succeed? Are you willing to work long hours at first with little pay? Are you willing to take risks and face possible failure? Do you have enough money saved up so that you won’t be tempted to dip into savings when times get tough? If so, congratulations! You might just be ready for entrepreneurship.
5) If Visible Damage Occurs
Any type of damage to an exterior wall, foundation or ceiling can be a sign that you have asbestos present. Sagging floors and walls, bulging areas or loose drywall are examples of visible structural damage that could lead to asbestos exposure. This is especially true if you notice these issues after a heavy rainstorm or large flood.
6) If Large Pipes Are Being Installed
If large pipes are being installed, be sure that they do not disturb asbestos-containing material (ACM). This is a common mistake made by contractors. According to regulations enforced by OSHA, asbestos abatement must begin if ACM is disturbed, because of its dangerous nature. There are certain ways to avoid having to remove asbestos from your property. If you hire a professional abatement company, be sure that it hires special trained individuals and uses only approved equipment on your property. Other precautionary measures include using personal protective equipment and ensuring that all workers who enter and exit your home wear it at all times when working around potentially hazardous materials like asbestos.
7) After an Emergency
If you or your loved ones have been exposed to asbestos after an emergency, like a fire or natural disaster, your first step should be to get them checked out by a medical professional. If their health seems fine and no symptoms have appeared, it’s not mandatory that you undergo testing yourself. But if you live in an area where asbestos has been used heavily and there is no visible damage from exposure, consider getting tested as a precautionary measure.
8) Before Selling Your Home
If you’re planning to sell your home and have asbestos present, it’s important to check for asbestos hazards. If asbestos abatement is required, many sellers aren’t interested because they fear it will lower their property value. Homeowners may be interested in hiring a professional Asbestos testing services NYC to test for asbestos before putting their home on the market.
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