Exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of developing:
Asbestosis; is a scarring of the lungs, which makes it difficult to breathe
Mesothelioma; a rare cancer of the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity
Lung cancer; smoking can greatly increase this risk
(Source: Health Canada)
Our company can help you with the abatement of asbestos so that you can breathe the air in your home with peace of mind.
When is asbestos hazardous?
Asbestos becomes a hazard when the fibers are disturbed and become airborne. This means that it poses health risks when fibres are present in the air and then people breathe them into the lungs. This release can happen through deterioration or when the material is cut or disturbed.
Is asbestos always a hazard?
Not always. If the suspected area/product is not deteriorating it may not be releasing fibres. If however, it is showing signs of damage, cracks or water damage you should speak with a professional.
Can I remove it from my home myself?
No. Asbestos fibres easily become airborne which leads to serious risks of illness if proper precautions are not taken. There are strict Ontario regulations that define the procedures that must be used when working with different types of asbestos.
What should I do if I think my home has asbestos?
You should hire a professional to test prior to any renovations, demolitions or additions to your home. If found you should hire a professional asbestos removal specialist before beginning any work.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act regulates 3 types of Asbestos Remediation operations:
Type 1 Abatement Operations
- Removing asbestos-containing ceiling tiles, vinyl floor tiles, etc.
- Removing non-friable asbestos-containing materials, other than ceilings.
- Breaking, cutting, drilling, abrading, grinding, sanding or vibrating non-friable asbestos-containing materials.
- Containment is not required during Type 1 Operations and the use of power tools is not allowed.
Type 2 Abatement Operations
- Small areas or amounts of friable asbestos-containing materials (i.e. pipe insulation, floor duct, paper wrap insulation, sheet flooring, etc.)
- Removing all or part of a false ceiling to obtain access to a work area, if asbestos-containing material is likely to be lying on the surface of the false ceiling.
- Enclosing friable asbestos-containing material.
- Breaking, cutting, drilling, abrading, grinding, sanding or vibrating non-friable asbestos-containing materials.
- Containment is required during Type 2 Operations, as is the use of Negative Air HEPA Filtration and Personal Protective Equipment.
Type 3 Abatement Operations
- Repairing, altering or demolishing all or part of any building in which asbestos is or was used in the manufacture of products, unless the asbestos was cleaned up and removed before March 16, 1986.
Large areas or amounts of friable asbestos-containing material (greater than 1 square metre) including all of the above materials, and more…
In addition to Type 2 Requirements, containment with a portable shower is also required.