Asbestos. It’s a word that no one wants to hear in connection with their own home. Yet, many Australians are living in homes that contain asbestos in them, and they don’t even know it! For any house that was constructed prior to 1990, there is a possibility that it was made using materials that contain asbestos. If you’re sitting here thinking, “But my home was built before 1990!” don’t panic!
It’s true that asbestos is very dangerous, but when it’s removed safely, then you don’t have to worry too much. Today’s blog post is going to explain everything. We’ll find out what asbestos is, why it’s dangerous, how to remove it safely and how to find a reliable Lake Macquarie asbestos removal service.
Asbestos Explained
A quick Wikipedia search will tell you that asbestos is a ‘naturally occurring fibrous silicate material.’ As mentioned at the beginning, it was commonly found in building materials before 1990, so many older Australian houses can contain it. It was used for homes because of its resistance to erosion, heat, and decay and its insulating properties against electricity and heat. However, more in-depth research of the material unearthed some scary things…
Research showed that being exposed to asbestos fibres poses a significant health risk, leading to potentially fatal illnesses. Asbestos is particularly dangerous because its microscopic fibres can become airborne when disturbed and be inhaled into the lungs. This can result in severe lung diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. That’s why Australia banned asbestos on December 31, 2003; it is also prohibited in 61 other countries globally. Clearly, this is a very serious issue!
Asbestos can be split into six different types classified into two groups: serpentine and amphibole asbestos. The serpentine group includes chrysotile, while the amphibole group consists of amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite.
- Chrysotile (White Asbestos): The most common type, chrysotile, has curly and flexible fibres. It was used extensively for commercial and residential purposes, including roofs, ceilings, walls, and floors. Despite its widespread use, chrysotile is known for causing serious health issues when inhaled.
- Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Known for its harsh, needle-like fibres, amosite was commonly used in cement sheets and pipe insulation. It is highly resistant to heat, which makes it popular in construction materials and insulation products. Amosite is particularly dangerous due to its friability, meaning it easily crumbles into fine particles that can be inhaled.
- Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): This type has very thin fibres and is considered the most hazardous form of asbestos. Crocidolite, such as in steam engines and spray-on coatings, was used in high-temperature environments. Its fine fibres are easily inhaled, leading to severe lung damage.
- Tremolite: Tremolite fibres can be flexible or brittle. It is a contaminant in chrysotile asbestos, vermiculite, and talc powders. Although it was never used commercially, it is present in various products and poses health risks.
- Anthophyllite: Rarely used commercially, anthophyllite asbestos occurs in certain talc deposits and some construction materials. It has long, brittle fibres and can be brown, yellow, or white.
- Actinolite: Also not commonly used in commercial products, actinolite asbestos can be fibrous or non-fibrous. It appears in various colours, including white, grey, green, or brown, and is found as a contaminant in other minerals.
All types of asbestos are hazardous, and prolonged exposure can lead to disease. Each type's varying characteristics and uses underline the importance of safely carrying out Newcastle asbestos removal. But how can you know if you have asbestos in your home?
What To Look For
Identifying asbestos in your home involves checking various materials and locations where asbestos is commonly used. Here’s what to look for:
- Insulation: Asbestos was often used in insulation materials. Check attic and wall insulation, especially in homes built before the 1980s. Vermiculite insulation, often grey or silver, might contain asbestos.
- Flooring: Asbestos-containing vinyl tiles, linoleum, and adhesive mastics were common. Look for old vinyl tiles, which may have a distinctive 9x9 inch size, but some 12x12 inch tiles also contain asbestos. The backing of some linoleum flooring may also contain asbestos.
- Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings and textured paint applied before the mid-1980s often contain asbestos. These ceilings have a bumpy, cottage cheese-like texture.
- Pipes and Ducts: Asbestos was previously used to insulate boiler coverings, ducts and pipes. Check for white or grey insulation on pipes in basements, attics, or around heating systems.
- Roofing and Siding: Asbestos-cement shingles and roofing materials were popular for their durability and fire resistance. Inspect old roofing shingles and exterior siding for a cement-like appearance.
- Wall and Ceiling Panels: Asbestos-containing wallboards, joint compounds, and textured paints were common in older homes. These materials might be hidden behind newer renovations.
- Electrical Wiring Insulation: Asbestos was used to insulate electrical wiring and panels. Look at old fuse boxes, wiring insulation, and panels.
If you think you might have asbestos in your home, do not disturb the material, as this can cause dangerous fibres to be released into the air. Call your local Lake Macquarie asbestos removal team immediately, and they will carry out the process safely for you. Let’s see how a safe removal process is carried out!
Safe Asbestos Removal Process
Safe asbestos removal is a careful process that is designed to prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the air and protect the health of everyone involved. The process begins with a thorough assessment by licensed asbestos professionals, who identify and evaluate the extent of asbestos-containing materials. The work area is then enclosed with plastic sheeting and equipped with negative air pressure systems to confine airborne fibres.
Workers wear personal protective equipment, including respirators and disposable coveralls, to prevent exposure. Asbestos materials are carefully wetted to minimise dust before being removed and placed in sealed, labelled containers for proper disposal at designated facilities. Air quality is continuously monitored throughout the process to ensure fibre levels remain safe. After removal, the area is thoroughly cleaned using specialised HEPA vacuum cleaners and wet-wiping methods to eliminate residual fibres. Finally, a clearance inspection is conducted to confirm the area is asbestos contamination-free before it is declared safe for reoccupation. This systematic approach ensures the safe and effective removal of asbestos, safeguarding human health and the environment.
Choose A Reputable Company
Choosing a reputable Newcastle asbestos removal company is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective handling of asbestos materials. It is important to verify that the company is properly licensed and certified to perform asbestos abatement in your area, as this demonstrates compliance with local regulations and standards. Look for companies with substantial experience and a solid track record in asbestos removal; reviews and testimonials from previous clients can show you how reliable they are and their quality of service. Ensure the company follows strict safety protocols, including using personal protective equipment, setting up containment areas, and employing HEPA filtration systems. You can also request a detailed written estimate that outlines the scope of work, methods to be used, and the timeline for completion. A trustworthy company should consistently offer proof of insurance, covering both liability and workers' compensation, to shield you from any potential liabilities.
Finally, make sure to confirm that the company will conduct air quality monitoring and provide a clearance certificate upon completion of the project, which ensures that your home is safe for reoccupation. Taking these steps will help you select a trustworthy and safe asbestos removal company!
First image by Orin Zebest
Last image by Matilda Wormwood