ASBESTOS IN RESIDENTIAL HOMES
ASBESTOS IN RESIDENTIAL HOMES IN VICTORIA, BC
WHAT IS ASBESTOS?
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral fibre, was extensively used in construction due to its fire resistance, insulation properties, and durability. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to severe health complications, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. While its use has been banned in Australia since 2003, many older homes in Victoria may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), especially those built before the mid-1980s.
IN OLDER HOMES YOU MAY FIND ASBESTOS IN:
Insulation in attics, walls, and around pipes
Roofing materials such as shingles and felt
Vinyl floor tiles and linoleum backing
Textured paint and patching compounds
HVAC duct insulation and tape
Electrical wiring insulation
Vermiculite insulation in attic spaces
Cement sheets and siding
Fireplace and wood stove insulation
Acoustic ceiling tiles and spray-on coatings
Pipe insulation around boilers and heating systems
Caulking and putty around windows and doors
Exterior stucco and plaster coatings
Gaskets and seals in appliances like furnaces and stoves
Brakes and clutches in older vehicles stored in garages
It's important to note that this list is not exhaustive, as asbestos was used in numerous products and materials for its fire-retardant and insulating properties. If you suspect any material in your home may contain asbestos, it's crucial to have it tested by a professional before any renovation or removal work.
HEALTH RISKS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE
Asbestos is dangerous due to the health risks associated with inhaling its microscopic fibres. Here's why asbestos is considered hazardous:
Respiratory Health Effects: When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, tiny asbestos fibers can be released into the air. If these fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and cause serious respiratory issues over time.
Cancer Risk: Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers has been linked to various forms of cancer, including lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, or heart), and cancers of the larynx and ovaries.
Asbestosis: Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to a condition known as asbestosis, which is a chronic inflammatory lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue. Asbestosis can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and permanent lung damage.
IS IT SAFE TO LIVE IN A HOME THAT HAS ASBESTOS?
Yes, it is safe to live in a home that contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) with the right protocols. However, it is essential to understand the potential risks associated with asbestos exposure and take appropriate precautions to minimize those risks. Here are some key considerations:
Condition of the Asbestos: If the asbestos-containing materials in your home are in good condition and not damaged or deteriorating, they may pose a lower risk of releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Regular inspections and maintenance can help ensure that ACMs remain undisturbed.
Risk Management: If you suspect that your home contains asbestos, it's advisable to have it professionally inspected to assess the extent of asbestos-containing materials and their condition. A qualified asbestos assessor can provide recommendations for managing the asbestos safely.
Avoid Disturbance: The most significant risk of asbestos exposure occurs when ACMs are disturbed or damaged, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Therefore, it's crucial to avoid activities that could disturb asbestos-containing materials, such as drilling, sanding, or cutting them.
Safe Renovation Practices: If you plan to renovate or remodel your home, it's essential to take precautions to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers. This may include hiring licensed professionals to handle asbestos removal and following established safety procedures.
Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance and upkeep of your home can help minimize the risk of asbestos exposure. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage or deterioration in materials suspected of containing asbestos, and address any issues promptly.
Awareness and Education: Educate yourself and your household members about the potential risks of asbestos exposure and how to safely manage ACMs in your home. This includes understanding where asbestos may be found, how to identify it, and what precautions to take.
TESTING FOR ASBESTOS
Accurate identification of asbestos-containing materials is essential for effective management and risk mitigation:
Sample Collection: Collect samples of suspected materials following established safety protocols, ensuring minimal disturbance.
Laboratory Analysis: Submit samples to accredited laboratories for comprehensive asbestos testing and analysis.
Professional Evaluation: Consider engaging qualified asbestos assessors or consultants for expert evaluations and recommendations.
IF ASBESTOS IS FOUND
These are the measures that local remediation companies will use to keep the site safe and the contamination contained:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Workers are outfitted with comprehensive PPE, including disposable coveralls, respirators equipped with HEPA filters, goggles, and gloves. This gear is essential for minimizing exposure to asbestos fibres.
Negative Air Machines: Employed to create negative air pressure within the work area, these machines effectively prevent the escape of asbestos fibers. Equipped with HEPA filters, they capture any airborne asbestos particles, enhancing safety.
HEPA Vacuums: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuums are used to meticulously clean surfaces and remove any asbestos dust or debris. These vacuums ensure that asbestos particles are contained and not released back into the air.
Wetting Agents: Special solutions are applied to asbestos-containing materials to suppress dust and minimize the risk of fibers becoming airborne during removal. This technique enhances safety by controlling dust dispersion.
Enclosure and Ventilation Systems: Temporary barriers and enclosures are erected to isolate the work area, preventing contamination of other parts of the building. Ventilation systems are also utilized to maintain proper airflow and control the spread of asbestos fibres.
Disposal Bags and Containers: Asbestos materials are carefully sealed in leak-tight bags or containers that adhere to regulatory standards for proper disposal. This ensures that asbestos waste is handled and disposed of safely.
RENOVATION COSTS WITH ASBESTOS
Renovating with asbestos involves specific costs that should be considered:
Professional Removal Costs: Engage licensed asbestos removalists for the safe and lawful removal of ACMs. Costs vary depending on the extent of asbestos present and the complexity of removal. On average, removal costs can range from $1,500 to $3,000 for a small area and up to $20,000+ or more for larger areas or whole-house removal.
Containment and Encapsulation Costs: In cases where removal isn't feasible, consider encapsulating or enclosing ACMs to prevent fibre release. Costs for containment or encapsulation can range from $500 to $2,000 +depending on the size and complexity of the area.
Disposal Costs: Asbestos waste must be disposed of following specific guidelines outlined by local regulatory authorities. Disposal costs can vary depending on the quantity of waste and the designated disposal facility. On average, disposal costs range from $50 to $150 per cubic metre of asbestos waste.
(These are approximate pricing guidelines. Please contact a local remediation company for more specific costs).
IS VERMICULITE THE SAME THING AS ASBESTOS?
Vermiculite and asbestos are not the same thing, but vermiculite can sometimes contain asbestos fibres. Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that expands when heated, making it a useful material for insulation, construction, and gardening. It is often found in a mineral form called "exfoliated vermiculite," which is lightweight and has excellent thermal insulation properties.
However, some vermiculite deposits, particularly those mined from certain locations, may contain trace amounts of asbestos fibres. This is because asbestos minerals can naturally occur alongside vermiculite deposits in the earth. Asbestos-contaminated vermiculite was particularly prevalent in certain brands of insulation products in the past, most notably those sold under the brand name Zonolite.
Due to the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure, it's essential to exercise caution when dealing with vermiculite insulation, especially if it originates from known asbestos-contaminated sources. If you suspect vermiculite insulation in your home may contain asbestos, it's recommended to have it tested by a qualified professional and, if necessary, have it safely removed by licensed asbestos abatement contractors.
-Haven Realty Group
Note: This post is for informational purposes only. Please consult an industry professional for specific advise on your situation.