Asbestos was once widely used in buildings for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing. However, we now know it can be highly hazardous to your health. Asbestos fibers can become airborne and inhaled if disturbed, leading to serious illness. Because of these risks, asbestos removal must be handled with great caution.
Asbestos is harmful because it comprises tiny, sharp fibers that can become airborne when the materials are tampered with. Once it is airborne, anyone is at risk of inhaling them. These fibers can do long-term damage to the lungs. Some health risks posed by asbestos exposure include:
- Asbestosis: Inhaling asbestos fibers can bring about this chronic illness, leading to lung scarring and difficulty breathing.
- Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
- Mesothelioma: It is a rare type of cancer. A person’s lungs, chest, or abdominal lining is significantly affected. Most instances point to asbestos exposure.
- Other Respiratory Problems: Short-term exposure can lead to throat, lung, and skin irritation.
The Risks of Removing Asbestos
While removing asbestos yourself is tempting, leaving it to an expert with proper training and equipment would be best. Here are some of the risks one can face:
Improper removal techniques, like scraping, sanding, or cutting, can release asbestos fibers into the air. Anyone in the area could be exposed without the proper protective gear and ventilation.
Once airborne, asbestos fibers can settle on furniture, carpets, and clothing, spreading contamination throughout your home. This makes cleanup even more difficult and increases the risk for others.
In many places, there are strict laws regarding asbestos handling and disposal. Removing asbestos without proper certification could result in legal penalties or fines.
Asbestos waste must be sealed, labeled, and disposed of at approved facilities. Professionals can meet these requirements, endangering sanitation workers and the environment.
Stay Safe From the Risks That Asbestos Poses
Removing asbestos must be taken seriously. The risks to your health and the safety of those around you are simply too high. If you suspect your home or business contains asbestos, contact a certified professional at Premier Restoration Hawaii to safely inspect and manage the situation.