Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in building materials throughout Canada for many years. While it has beneficial properties such as fire resistance, it also poses a serious health risk if it is not properly handled and removed. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and can cause a range of respiratory illnesses if its fibers become airborne. Therefore, it is important to take the proper steps to safely remove asbestos from a home.
The first step in safely removing asbestos is to hire a professional who is certified and trained to handle asbestos removal. Asbestos removal is a hazardous process and should be handled by professionals. It is important to check with local government agencies to ensure the contractor is properly certified.
Before the removal process begins, the affected area must be sealed off and cleared of any furniture and other items. This will prevent the asbestos fibers from becoming airborne and entering the air.
Once the area is cleared, the asbestos-containing materials must be removed carefully. This includes using protective equipment such as respirators, gloves, and protective coveralls. The materials must be placed in sealed bags and labeled as containing asbestos. It is also important to wet the materials during the removal process as this will help to limit the spread of airborne fibers.
Once the asbestos materials are removed, they must be disposed of properly. Asbestos should never be mixed with other waste materials and must be placed in specially marked containers. It is important to check with local government agencies to find out the proper disposal method for asbestos-containing materials.
Finally, the affected area must be cleaned and sealed off. Vacuuming and wet-mopping the area will help to trap any remaining asbestos fibers. The area should then be sealed off with plastic sheeting or other materials to prevent the asbestos from becoming airborne.
Removing asbestos from a home is a hazardous process and should only be done by a professional who is certified and trained to handle asbestos removal. By following the proper steps and ensuring the safety of all involved, asbestos can be safely removed from a Canadian home.