Discovering asbestos in a property is usually a cause for concern, especially because it can pose serious health risks when disturbed. Asbestos was widely used in the Australian construction industry until the late 1980s, meaning that it is essential for property owners over a certain age to be aware of the steps to take if they suspect the presence of asbestos in the building. Keep on reading this article if you want to learn some valuable information about what to do as soon as you think you have discovered any type of asbestos in a property.
Take it seriously
Firstly, if you suspect the presence of asbestos in your property, it is essential not to panic but to take the situation seriously and call a company providing asbestos air testing. Asbestos fibres can cause serious health issues if they are inhaled, including lung diseases and cancer. As a result, you must stay calm and proceed with caution to protect yourself and the other occupants of the building while asbestos-containing materials are generally safe if they remain undisturbed. Therefore, it is crucial not to disturb any of the suspected asbestos material while you must avoid touching, drilling, cutting or scraping the material because these actions can release the asbestos fibres into the air, making them easier to inhale.
Isolate and limit access
Secondly, if you suspect the presence of asbestos, you must restrict access to the affected area immediately. By closing off the area and making sure people, especially children and pets, are kept away until the material is safely removed you can ensure serious health issues do not occur. Engaging a licensed asbestos assessor in New South Wales is the next step to take because they are experts in identifying and assessing asbestos-containing materials.
Test the material
Thirdly, if you want to determine whether a suspected material contains asbestos, it is essential to have it tested by a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratory. The assessor will be able to guide you through the process and advise you on how to handle the samples safely. Upon receiving the test results and the assessor’s report, you must carefully review their recommendations and take the appropriate actions, such as encapsulation, sealing or removal.
Engage a licensed asbestos removalist
Finally, if the asbestos-containing material requires removal, it is crucial to hire a licensed asbestos removalist in the state of New South Wales. These professionals have the necessary skills, equipment and expertise to handle the asbestos removal process safely. They will follow strict guidelines and regulations to ensure proper containment, removal and disposal of the hazardous material.
- Take it seriously and do not panic
- Isolate and limit access to the area
- Ensure that the material is tested
- Engage an asbestos removal company in Australia
Therefore, to summarise, discovering any type of asbestos in a property can often be a cause for concern, but by following the proper steps, you will be able to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of yourself and the other occupants of the building.