The Asbestos Do’s And Don’ts Every Toronto Homeowner Should Know

The Asbestos Do’s And Don’ts Every Toronto Homeowner Should Know

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was commonly used in construction materials such as insulation, flooring, roofing, and cement between the 1940s and 1980s. It was popular for its fire-resistant properties and durability. However, over time, it was discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and undisturbed, they pose no threat. However, if they are damaged, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and cause health problems. Therefore, if you suspect there may be asbestos in your home, it's important to have it tested by a licensed professional.

If asbestos-containing materials are found in your home, it is best to have them removed by licensed professionals who are trained to handle and dispose of asbestos safely. The removal process involves several steps, including:

Preparation: The area is sealed off with plastic sheets to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.

Removal: The asbestos-containing material is carefully removed using specialized equipment and techniques to minimize the release of fibers.

Clean-up: The area is thoroughly cleaned using specialized vacuums and wet wiping to remove any remaining asbestos fibers.

Disposal: The asbestos-containing material is disposed of in accordance with local and state regulations.

During the removal process, it's important to follow some basic do's and don'ts to ensure safety:

Do's:

Hire licensed professionals to handle the removal.
Wear protective clothing, including safety goggles, gloves, and a respirator.
Seal off the area to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.
Follow proper disposal procedures for asbestos-containing materials.
Don'ts:

Attempt to remove asbestos-containing materials on your own without the proper equipment and safety gear.
Disturb asbestos-containing materials if they are in good condition and undisturbed.
Sweep or vacuum asbestos fibers, as this can spread them into the air.
Dispose of asbestos-containing materials in the regular trash.