Tips on How to Safely Handle Asbestos

Asbestos removal companies invest in ensuring that their staff is properly trained in handling the hazardous material. Employees are expected to understand the importance of handling asbestos safely in order to ensure that they do not run into any health problems. To protect yourself when you need to deal with asbestos, here are some tools and tips you can use.

Protective Clothing – Do not rely on just any of your clothes to protect you when removing asbestos.Protective clothing used by experts is usually disposable, and they also put on specially designed shoe covers. These pieces of clothing are important to ensure that asbestos does not reach the skin by penetrating the garments.  

Breathing Equipment – During asbestos removal, fibres are usually released in the breathing area surrounding the person. Proper breathing equipment such as face masks and respirators shield the nasal passageways from asbestos inhalation.  

Correct Tools –Equipment and tools have been manufactured and developed specifically for asbestos removal. But it’s good to be made aware of which ones to avoid. For example, sanders should never be used as they contribute in increasing the volume of dust particles containing asbestos. Trained professionals should always be in-the-know of what tools to bring and use in the contaminated area.

Protect the Area –Drop sheets should be placed to protect the area that is being cleared of asbestos. This prevents the risk of asbestos fibres being left behind once the asbestos removal process has been completed.

Cleaning up –Once it is confirmed that the asbestos removal process is accomplished, the areas treated should be cleaned effectively. Air filters and vacuums are to be used, as well as steam cleaners for rugs and carpets.

Clothing, Rags and Mops – After every inch of the house has been freed of any traces of asbestos, the cleaning items used on the areas should be disposed of right away. While in use, they should always be wet, and never allowed to dry. You can actually just throw them away whilst they are still wet. This ensures that asbestos fibres are not released in the air because of shaking and movement.

Proper Disposal –The proper disposal of all materials that have been used during the asbestos removal is incredibly important. All waste bags are to be properly marked in order to ensure that they are not mistaken for something else other than asbestos. Just a quick opening can immediately release the fibres, and it may be too late before you realise that you’ve inhaled the material yourself.

Asbestos can be incredibly dangerous when not handled properly. Removal of the material should only be handled by people who know what they are doing.It is always good to be made aware of the safety precautions involved in asbestos removal. If you need further assistance, then contact a professional asbestos removal company immediately.