In today’s world, we witness a penchant for changing or more likely upgrading the standard of livelihood. As new things are getting invented, the shadow of old is passed away. Our approach of doing things isn’t similar to 90’s style, with an increase in the knowledge our technology is improving each and every day to deliver menace free life.
In this lifestyle of advancement, there are still some areas which are still overlooked and it has to be rectified. As a matter of fact, people are still using asbestos for constructing their homes. Many homes built-in 90’s contain asbestos in old floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roof shingles and in pipe cement. Some newer houses may also contain asbestos. Asbestos is extremely durable and resistant to fire and most chemical reactions and breakdowns. It is a material preferred over several other materials when it comes to roofing shingles, ceiling materials floor tiles, and cement compounds because of its strength and its resistance to heat. The durability of the asbestos that created the demand for the product, that same has made it hazardous. Asbestos is now strictly regulated because exposure to this toxic mineral can cause a severe health issue.
Asbestos becomes a hazard when it is airborne. If asbestos in the home becomes damaged, asbestos fibres may be released. Asbestos fibres are microscopic, and therefore, are easily inhaled. Once inhaled, the fibres cling to the respiratory system which can cause respiratory issues and can cause lung cancer. It’s our onus to spread the awareness of the diseases associated with the use of asbestos.
It is mandatory to make our homes asbestos free. Now, how do you get rid of Asbestos from your home?
- Make sure to check the material used while constructing your house.
If your house is under construction or you are in a planning phase, you must consider this and only make use of the alternatives for asbestos. There are many alternatives and substitutes for asbestos which are durable and resistant to fire and are environmentally friendly. Many of these asbestos replacement materials are “green” in nature, providing a safe alternative for the environment as well as for the individuals coming into contact with the product, or residing within the building, where the material has been used.
The alternative materials are
– Amorphous Silica Fabrics
– Cellulose Fibre
– Polyurethane Foam
– Flour Fillers
– Thermoset Plastic Flour
These products are naturally processed, many products that once contained asbestos are now being manufactured with natural and synthetic fibres. Fibreglass, mineral wool, cellulose and plastic are a variety of materials which are replacing asbestos containing insulation nowadays. Natural materials, such as hemp, sheep’s wool and straw, have also been used. By using these products in constructing the house will make it asbestos free.
- You can contact asbestos removal company that is readily available in your country.
You can always look online for reviews and cost to remove asbestos. If the house is already constructed using the asbestos, it is very much necessary to get rid of this health hazardous product. Always check with a certified specialist before removing boilers, floor tile, roofing or insulation. Our lives are determined by our environment and it’s our responsibility to create a safe environment.
As soon as asbestos is discovered, everyone living in the house should be moved out immediately. After the arrival of abatement team, they would seal off all the rooms, ducts, windows, doorways and everything completely with plastic. The team members take necessary precautions, such as wearing the disposable suits, respirators and gloves (and sometimes even disposable underwear.) They would cut the floor boards into some manageable sections and tape off the edges. The debris is all vacuumed and also cleansed from all the rooms and then disposed of in the plastic bags. The contaminated clothing, material etc. are usually drawn back by the abatement company, and they are disposed in a specially sealed dumpster used for dumping asbestos products.
As Prevention is better than cure, it’s always prudent to take necessary action and spread awareness about asbestos. Many of these substitute products are eco-friendly, providing a safer environment for you and your family. Best of all, most are readily available and can be provided by a contractor upon request. Meaning you no longer have to settle for asbestos. And don’t forget, it’s always suggested not to remove Asbestos from your home yourself, call certified professionals and get it removed with all required safety norms.
Author: Carolette Alcoran
