The presence of asbestos in your home can cause fear and panic. However, when handled properly, the offending material can be removed safely with minimal risk of harmful exposure. The primary precaution to address before disturbing the affected areas in the building is choosing a qualified abatement professional. In simple terms, do not attempt self-management if you discover signs of asbestos-containing features. Instead, consult a specialist with a licence for handling and disposing of hazardous building materials. Here are additional tips for managing the risk of exposure during asbestos removal. 

Conduct an Inspection 

The lack of information on the asbestos in a building often leads to poor management during removal. Therefore, do not take action before commissioning a qualified inspector and receiving a thorough report on the location and type of asbestos. In general, asbestos-containing materials are classified as friable and non-friable. The type in your home will determine the best removal or management technique to minimise exposure to the dangerous material.

Consider Abatement

Asbestos removal is not always necessary because the material can remain stable and harmless. If your home contains the non-friable type, you can avoid complete removal. Non-friable asbestos cannot be crumbled under light pressure and is often bonded to other materials like cement. If the structures in the home are not disturbed, the risk of exposure is minimal without removal. Moreover, asbestos can be bonded and stabilised to keep its integrity. Friable asbestos crumbles into particles, so removal is the right option for a residential building.

Prepare the Worksite

The primary risk of exposure during removal is the escape of asbestos particles. The inhalation of hazardous dust will cause short-term and long-term respiratory diseases. Therefore, you must take appropriate precautions to keep the airborne particles contained to the worksite. The best approach involves isolating the work area with plastic sheets and stabilising them with negative air pressure equipment. All items like furniture should be removed from the site and the stationary ones covered with plastic. Moreover, place a warning sign to prevent people from breaching the worksite and releasing the particles.

Clean the Particles

Finally, clean the particles after removing the asbestos and packing it in thick disposal bags. The most efficient technique involves using an industrial vacuum with a high particulate filter. However, you will still need to wipe the unreachable or inaccessible surfaces using a wet cloth. Make sure that the cleaning materials and the plastic sheets are handled as hazardous waste, just like asbestos. 

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