Asbestos has been used in building materials and construction products since the 1800s, but it has since been banned in many countries because of the health risks that have become apparent over time. However, asbestos contamination still affects millions of homes worldwide, leading to thousands of yearly cases of mesothelioma and other cancers. This guide on identifying and dealing with asbestos contamination will help you identify if your home may have had asbestos and what steps you can take if that’s the case so you can begin protecting your family from cancer-causing exposure.
Health Risks Associated with Asbestos
Asbestos is a known carcinogen, meaning that it can cause lung cancer. Asbestos fibers also can get lodged in your lungs and cause scar tissue, which can be fatal if left untreated. Unfortunately, health risks associated with asbestos are often not seen until decades after the exposure. If you suspect there may be contamination of the home or workplace from asbestos, contact your local health department for information about how to clean up or remove the substance. Special protective clothing or equipment may be necessary when removing contaminated materials from the home or workplace.
Read also: The Importance of Regular Asbestos Health and Safety Monitoring
What are the Signs of Asbestos Contamination?
The most obvious sign of asbestos contamination is the identification of a friable (crumbling) material. If you spot this, it is always best to contact a professional because the material can cause significant health risks if handled improperly. Asbestos contamination can also be identified by tiny asbestos fibers released into the air or on surfaces around your home. You will also want to watch for dust on surfaces, which could indicate that there may be asbestos. The last sign of asbestos contamination is mold growing in or near areas where there was likely an airborne release.
What to Do If You Find Asbestos in Your Home
If you find asbestos in your home, the best thing to do is to ensure it stays contained. Avoid disturbing it because the dust can become airborne. If you have a vacuum cleaner, use it to clean up any loose fibers on visible hard surfaces. If you have a wet-dry vacuum cleaner, use that instead. You can also use a disposable wipe or wet cloth to clean up any visible dust from hard surfaces. You should also wear protective gear like goggles and gloves when cleaning up asbestos contamination in your home.
for more information: Get Your Business Fresh and Clean with a Commercial Cleaning Service in Fresno
Safe Asbestos Testing & Removal by Kac Solution
The number of homes containing asbestos has been at its highest since 2003. Asbestos is especially dangerous for children, as they are likelier to unknowingly disturb or inhale the fibers. This can cause a variety of health problems later in life. Kac Solution can help you identify if your home has asbestos by performing a safe testing procedure. Then, if it does contain asbestos, ac Solution can safely remove it from your home so that your family stays safe. Call us today for an appointment!
