Asbestos abatement refers to the process of safely identifying, containing, and removing asbestos from a property. It is only necessary when asbestos fibers have been exposed to the air; old buildings that have been constructed using asbestos don’t need abatement if the asbestos hasn’t been exposed. Asbestos abatement should always be done by an experienced team who knows how to safely handle this material without exposing themselves to it.
The abatement process starts with testing and inspection. Testing determines whether there is actually any exposed asbestos and where these fibers are in the building. This initial step is crucial in determining how best to go about the containment and removal processes.
Depending on what the exposure looks like in a building, abatement may include encapsulating certain areas to make sure no asbestos travels throughout the rest of the space. Encapsulation is typically reserved for spaces within a building that are mostly intact and without the potential for further degradation.
Removing asbestos involves using the right combination of handling techniques to make sure asbestos fibers don’t travel throughout the building while they’re being transported elsewhere and using the right personal protective equipment. Gloves, masks, and more are all necessary when handling asbestos to prevent exposure.
If you’re concerned that your building has exposed asbestos fibers, give us here at Double D Construction Services, Inc., a call right away. You don’t want to push off the need for asbestos abatement, as the longer you’re exposed to this harmful substance, the more likely you are to develop severe illness later down the road.