Asbestos Removal Why You Should Stay Safe And Hire A Professional

August 29, 2019

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral found in rocks and metamorphic soils. It’s naturally occurring, and great to build with. However, it’s incredibly dangerous. For that reason, you should call an asbestos removal specialist in Auckland if you find any in your home. Here’s how, and why, you should stay safe and call a professional.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

When asbestos is intact, it’s less dangerous; however, it should still be removed if you find it. When the outer shell of asbestos is damaged, the inside looks fibrous. The fibres are microscopic. As soon as they become airborne, they can settle anywhere. Once breathed in, asbestos dust becomes lodged inside lung tissue. People who’ve been exposed to asbestos are likely to contract lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma, both incurable and fatal asbestos-related illnesses.

How Asbestos Is Removed

Although asbestos should not be removed by someone who is not a certified or experienced asbestos removal specialist, it is possible if you follow instructions. Here’s how asbestos should be removed, with a list of items and protective gear that you’ll need. If you feel as if this is a job you shouldn’t undertake, then you should call a professional team to do it for you.

Preparing The Area

• Clear the area of furniture and make sure that the space won’t be disturbed as you’re working.
• Cover all surfaces with plastic sheeting and seal.
• Turn off all ventilation to the area.
• Wet the area you’re going to work on. If the area is wet, the asbestos dust will become less airborne.

Personal Safety

• Wear disposable overalls, gloves, a hood and a full-face respiratory mask. The mask should have a P1-P2 dust respirator.
• Make sure that there are no openings to your clothing or skin where the fibres can get in.

Safe Removal Of Asbestos

• Don’t use power tools or anything that causes vibrations.
• Put the waste into thick plastic bags as you work, seal and then double-bag.
• Put the plastic sheeting into double-up bags when you’re finished.

Disposal And Clean-up

• Label the bags and make sure that you dispose of them at a waste facility only.
• Wipe down the surfaces with a wet cloth to collect loose fibres.
• Dispose of all tools, cleaning materials and protective gear.

Conclusion

Although it is possible to remove asbestos in your home as a DIY project, as you can see, it’s an extensive and dangerous job. You would be better off, and safer, calling a professional asbestos removal specialist in Auckland to do the job for you. Don’t risk your health for a challenging DIY project. Call an expert today.