Certainly there’s a bit of mystery around asbestos – people don’t think it’s around anymore! Asbestos is not something that is on the mind of most people. So when the term pops up following a flood or fire, or during renovation, we get questions. We hope this article helps answer your questions.
If asbestos is suspected, Paragon Environmental will have that area tested before removing any materials. Demolition proceeds only after all materials are tested. This is the standard required by law in the state of Colorado. Colorado Regulation 8 is explained more thoroughly on the following page. Here is the link to the Colorado law.
If a structure contains asbestos, we advise the following:
- Don’t panic. The presence of asbestos is fairly common.
- We will provide an estimate to remove the materials containing asbestos.
- If you are working through an insurance company, we will work with you to get the estimate approved before moving forward with abatement.
- If the abatement is to proceed in a critical common area of the building, such as a kitchen, owners may want to ask for insurance to help in seeking accommodations during the abatement process.
- Paragon Environmental will seal the affected area. Our number one priority is to prevent the spread of any asbestos contamination.
- Once contained, the affected area is carefully removed following strict guidelines set forth by OSHA, EPA and CDPHE. Our technicians wear protective equipment and respirators.
- Lastly, the area is thoroughly cleaned to ensure that all traces of asbestos is removed. Paragon Environmental uses special HEPA filtered vacuums and cleaners to meticulously eliminate any asbestos fibers.
When Does Asbestos Need to be Removed?
Because removal poses the greatest risk for releasing fibers into the air, removal should be the last option unless it is required by state or local regulations. Removal will be necessary if renovations or remodeling work will be done, since disturbing the area can release harmful fibers into the air. ACM will also need to be removed if it is extensively damaged and cannot be repaired.
Who Can Perform Asbestos Removal?
Asbestos removal is a complex process and must be performed by an experienced and properly accredited contractor. Asbestos professionals are trained to handle asbestos and will operate in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. This is very important because improper removal can actually increase the health risks to you and your family.
What Kind of Training Do Asbestos Professionals Receive?
Training courses are available from the federal government, as well as state and local governments throughout the country. Upon successful completion of the training, participants can become certified. In addition to asbestos professionals, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to establish and continue participation in an asbestos training program for employees that might be exposed to fiber levels that are either anticipated or measured at/above permissible exposure limits.
What is Involved in the Removal Process?
Asbestos removal is a three-step process. First, the affected area is carefully sealed to prevent any airborne fibers from contaminating other areas. Second, the asbestos within the area is carefully removed following strict guidelines and placed in sealed disposal containers by a team of certified technicians who are wearing protective equipment and respirators. Finally, the area is thoroughly cleaned using special HEPA-filtered vacuums and cleaners to ensure that all traces of asbestos are removed.
What Happens to the ACM After it is Removed?
Once removed, asbestos materials must be placed in a sealed dumpster and disposed of at an approved asbestos disposal site. A certificate will accompany the asbestos materials so that it is properly labeled as toxic, hazardous waste. Proper disposal is very important to ensure that asbestos materials are undisturbed and do not pose any further health hazards.
Remember, there are strict guidelines that must be followed for the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos. Removal should only be performed by a licensed asbestos removal contractor since disturbing asbestos can be even more hazardous than leaving it alone. If you need help dealing with asbestos in your home or business, give us a call at 303-529-1257. We are fully trained and experienced in asbestos removal, and we know how to safely remove asbestos from your property without putting you or others at risk.