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Guidelines for Asbestos Removal

Asbestos is a cancer causing agent found in many older building materials, such as flooring, insulation, wall covering and even tile grout. Asbestos isn't dangerous if it is left alone, but when the asbestos contained within building material is disturbed, the dust can enter the lungs and cause cancer. In order to prevent unnecessary risks to the environment, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has created guidelines for removal of asbestos. Asbestos should be removed by trained personnel only.

  1. Identifying Asbestos

    • There are several different materials that contain asbestos. Any homes that were built before the late 1970s will probably contain asbestos. On the interior of a home, you might find asbestos in the plaster of old walls, in insulation--walls, around pipes and wires, and in the ceiling--in flooring, such as vinyl and tile, and inside any old furnaces.

      On the outside of the home, you might find asbestos within roofing shingles, felt paper, stucco, black board rigid insulation and even in the vent pipes coming from the furnace.

    Precautions

    • Once you have identified any areas that may contain asbestos, you will need to contact the necessary government officials--local and state--and let them know that you suspect asbestos. Remember that you should never attempt to remove the asbestos; you will be putting yourself, your family and others at risk for inhaling the asbestos particles.

    Removal Guidelines

    • Asbestos containing materials that have become damaged should be isolated immediately. If you are living in the home, close off the doors to the room and seal the opening with plastic. Turn off and circulating air, such as an attic fan, air conditioner or window fan. Call an asbestos abatement contractor and request a consultation; the contractor will either advise you to have the material tested or she will do the testing herself.

      When the removal begins, signs must be posted that warn of asbestos contamination. The area containing asbestos will be isolated and the contractor will install special hepa filters in order to remove any particles from the air. The asbestos can either be encapsulated and left in place or removed. If it is removed, then it should be soaked with water before removal--the water will prevent dust. Again, you should never attempt to remove asbestos on your own.

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