Asbestos Abatement in California

Asbestos is a poisonous element that used to be prevalent in building materials and was widely used before its health risks led to its ban in 1999. Though asbestos makes good quality materials, when its fibers get airborne, the exposure can cause a great deal of damage to the human respiratory system. If you are renovating an older property in California, you should consider asbestos abatement before moving forward.

Asbestos Health Risks

Some of the health risks include mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis (scarring of the lungs that could reduce the quality of life), and diffuse pleural thickening (that could lead to breathlessness).

From the above risks related to asbestos exposure, it is in your best interest to ensure inspection and removal of asbestos in your buildings—homes or offices.

Asbestos Inspection and Identification

Asbestos-laden materials are most likely to be found in buildings contracted or refurbished from the period preceding the year 2000. Asbestos can often be found in any of the following locations:

  • Asbestos cement products (pipes, roofs)
  • Lagging (on pipes, boilers)
  • Water tanks, toilets, cisterns
  • Floor tiles
  • Textiles and composites
  • Sprayed coatings on ceilings, walls

Also, prior to asbestos removal or asbestos abatement, you should consult a qualified and licensed contractor. Alternatively, for asbestos abatement in California you can send a sample of the exhibit to a qualified lab for due inspection and validation.

Actual Asbestos Abatement

Asbestos abatement should be carried out by a contractor employed by one of the asbestos removal companies licensed by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive).

Points to Consider

While asbestos abatement is being performed in your building; it is in your best interest to move out for a few days to avoid inhaling the asbestos fibers that may lead to various life-threatening health risks. Remember, unearthing and exposing oneself to asbestos fibers during abatement poses higher risks of airborne asbestos inhalation rather than allowing the asbestos to stay unexposed.

With regards to asbestos abatement in California, call CVE for quality risk assessment, asbestos identification, and removal at 855-912-6787.