In The Field: Fascinating Facts About Construction And Contractors

Asbestos is a material that was used in the construction of roofs and piping until the year 2003 when it was banned in Australia. It was discovered that asbestos caused respiratory problems and even lung cancer.

The law now requires that all asbestos materials be removed from buildings by competent and highly-trained individuals.

The Two States of Asbestos

• Friable asbestos – This is asbestos that is loose or in powder form. It is considered the most dangerous state of asbestos because you can easily inhale it. If disturbed or blown by the wind, it floats in the air for some time before settling, making the chances of inhaling it high.
• Non-friable asbestos – This is asbestos that is compact. It is considered the least dangerous state of asbestos, but this does not mean it can't be harmful. If crushed, it can become powder (friable asbestos), making it dangerous.

Asbestos Removal

Even if you might come across a legal clause that indicates that you are legally allowed to remove non-friable asbestos of a particular size, it is not wise to handle asbestos. Chances are high that you can put yourself or your loved ones at health risk.

The correct way to handle asbestos removal is to contact an asbestos removal company near you. The company is equipped with the knowledge, skills, PPEs, materials, tools and equipment required to safely remove asbestos from your premise, package it safely for transport and dispose of it in an environmentally-friendly way.

How Expensive Are Asbestos Removal Services?

This depends on the size or amount of asbestos found on your premise. You may be required to pay an inspection fee first. The inspection helps fill in details about the amount of asbestos in your premises, the volume of work needed and the materials, tools and equipment required. This information helps the asbestos removal company give you an accurate quote for the entire process.

What Happens If You Decide to Remove the Asbestos Yourself?

Trying to save some money by removing asbestos yourself can have serious consequences. First, do you know how to protect yourself and your family members from exposure? You are risking your health and that of your loved ones.

Secondly, where are you going to dispose of the asbestos? Doing it in an incompetent manner might expose other people to respiratory diseases. Asbestos needs to be specially packaged after removal and during transport.

Thirdly, if you are caught removing or disposing of asbestos, you can serve a jail sentence or incur a hefty fine.

For more information about asbestos removal, contact a local company.