From the start of the 20th century, asbestos has widely found its use in building materials worldwide. However, once the world became aware of its toxic effects and its propensity to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other deadly medical conditions, governments worldwide placed restrictions on its application.
Unfortunately, it still exists inside old structures, hidden deep within pipe insulations, furnaces, ceiling insulation, floor tiles, and drywall. In most circumstances, it is impossible to detect the presence of asbestos with the naked eye. When the asbestos fibers cut loose, they pose a severe health risk for those inhaling them.
Therefore, it is crucial to have adequate and substantial laws and a reliable outfit to deal with the problem effectively.
California State Guidelines for Asbestos Removal and Abatement
California Asbestos Regulations permit only licensed professionals with technical expertise to inspect and report the presence of asbestos for further analysis. Once the lab analyzing the samples confirms the presence of asbestos, it makes either of the following three recommendations:
1. Hire a professional asbestos removal and abatement service.
2. Use sealants to contain and destroy asbestos fibers.
3. Do nothing if the situation is not dangerous.
Option 3 is self-explanatory. As long as the asbestos fibers are not loose enough to be inhaled, corrective action is discretionary. While sealants are a good option, they do not always guarantee protection from exposure. That leaves with option 1, asbestos removal or abatement. It is the most recommended and, clearly, the best option for asbestos removal or abatement.
Asbestos Abatement
The state of California lays down strict guidelines for asbestos abatement. It classifies abatement operations into four main categories, each with a different set of procedures and regulations.
Class I involves removing asbestos from furnaces and duct insulations. Class II involves removing asbestos from floor tiles, wallboard, roofing, sheeting, and construction materials. Employers and contractors must execute Class I and II abatement projects in enclosed and strictly regulated areas. All materials removed must be intact and immediately soaked in water to limit and prevent the spread of harmful carcinogens.
Operations falling under Class III involve repair and maintenance. The guidelines under this category prohibit throwing asbestos-containing materials to the ground and do not permit their dry cutting. Also, they warrant that such materials be carefully removed and designated with danger signs.
The guidelines relating to Class IV operations permit employees engaged in maintenance or custodial tasks to come in contact but prohibit them from disturbing the asbestos in any way.
California State Guidelines for Contractors and Employers
The California state Asbestos Law mandates that all contractors and employers working on asbestos projects in areas more than 100 square feet and an asbestos concentration of more than 0.01% must register with the Asbestos Contractors Registration Organization.
It requires that all workers, supervisors or contractors, building inspectors, project designers, and management planners go through respective courses and obtain certifications before working on asbestos projects. They must complete the training in a state-certified facility and renew their certificates every year.
The California Asbestos Law also mandates that all workers making contact and those working on asbestos projects in enclosed areas wear respirators and appropriate protective clothing all the time.
Conclusion
If you live in California or nearby counties, you will agree that the state cannot afford another threat in the shape of hazardous materials over and above the air pollution caused by gas-guzzling vehicles. If we fail to act now, we are not only ruining our today but also our tomorrow.
Resources:
Mold Removal Santa Clara CA – Mold Removal Oakland CA – Asbestos Abatement San Jose CA
