Asbestos has become one of the most feared substances in construction and demolition. Known for its heat resistance, durability, and versatility, asbestos was widely used in building materials throughout the 20th century. However, the dangers it poses to human health have made its removal crucial.
If you’re wondering how to safely remove asbestos, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about asbestos removal, from identification and risks to the safe removal process. We will keep it simple and clear, with a focus on ensuring your safety and well-being throughout the process.
Before the national ban in 2003, asbestos was widely used in a variety of construction materials. Due to its resistance to heat and fire, it became a popular choice for insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement products. Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos is linked to serious health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, a chronic lung disease.
The Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute reports that approximately 4,000 Australians die each year from asbestos-related diseases. Furthermore, it’s estimated that one in three Australian homes still contains asbestos-containing materials.
If you live in a home or work in a building built before the 1980s, there’s a high chance that asbestos is somewhere within the structure.
Asbestos becomes hazardous when it’s disturbed. The fibres it contains can become airborne, and when inhaled, these microscopic fibres can lodge in the lungs and other organs, leading to serious health issues. These diseases often take decades to manifest, meaning the effects may not be immediately noticeable but can be fatal in the long term.
Some common areas where you might find asbestos include:
The asbestos removal process is not something you should take lightly. It’s a complex process that requires the expertise of licensed professionals. However, understanding how asbestos removal works will help you better prepare and ensure the safety of everyone involved.
The first step is to determine if it’s present and where it is located. A licensed asbestos removalist will perform an inspection, which involves collecting samples of materials that may contain asbestos. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis. Air quality testing may also be conducted to check for asbestos fibres in the air.
Once asbestos is confirmed, the area must be sealed off to prevent contamination. The worksite will be clearly marked with warning signs, and all HVAC systems in the building will be shut off to prevent asbestos fibres from circulating. In some cases, a large-scale containment system is required to ensure that the asbestos doesn’t spread beyond the affected area.
To prevent asbestos fibres from becoming airborne, the material must be wetted down with a special solution. This helps to keep the fibres in place and reduces the risk of
inhalation during removal.
Asbestos is carefully removed. The material is then placed into sealed, leak-proof bags for safe disposal. In some cases, asbestos can be encapsulated with a sealant instead of being physically removed, depending on the severity of contamination.
Asbestos waste must be disposed of at certified asbestos disposal sites. These sites are equipped to handle the toxic material safely. In Australia, asbestos is taken to landfills that are licensed to accept it, ensuring that it is properly contained and managed.
After the asbestos has been removed, the area must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure no fibres remain. This is done using industrial-grade HEPA vacuums and wet cleaning methods. Air tests are also conducted to ensure the area is safe before it is declared asbestos-free.
In conclusion, how to remove asbestos safely involves hiring the right experts, following proper protocols, and ensuring the material is disposed of correctly. In cases where asbestos may have been released into the soil, soil remediation is necessary to ensure the area is safe.
Don’t take chances with your health, ensure you’re working with professionals who know how to handle asbestos removal and disposal effectively. Call Buildaroo now at 0421 841 919 or submit our online form to get in touch with our team of licensed asbestos removalists. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember that asbestos removal is best left to the experts.
