People tend to think of asbestos as something that is only a concern in older buildings. This is largely due to a misconception that the 1989 partial ban on asbestos in certain materials was actually a complete ban that prevented manufacturers from using the substance in anything. The truth, however, is that asbestos is still found in some modern building materials. Thus exposure is a risk in new structures as well as older ones, and asbestos inspections are essential no matter how new your structure is.
The main concern with asbestos is whether the material it is present in is friable.
A friable substance can be reduced to crumbles, fibers, or other small particles with little pressure or friction. Friable building materials include some forms of insulation, pipe lagging, and sprayable paints or surface coatings. A key aspect of asbestos inspections is checking for friable materials and taking samples to determine whether asbestos is present.
Even if you have a newer building, an asbestos inspection should be on your list of pre-renovation or demolition tasks to ensure you and anyone else on the property are safe. While sellers and builders should provide you with a report or notice about any asbestos containing materials (ACMs) within a building or structure, it’s always better to know for sure before you begin working.
The effects of asbestos exposure can take years to show themselves, and most people are familiar with the major illnesses it can cause, namely mesothelioma and asbestosis. Still, there are some immediate signs of exposure that you can look out for. Asbestos exposure can cause skin irritation, rashes, itching, and tingling or prickling. Investing in asbestos inspections is an important step in preserving the health and well-being of everyone who uses a building, so the next time you plan a renovation or project for your property, contact our team for a dependable, thorough asbestos inspection.