Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was once widely used in construction due to its heat resistance and insulating properties. However, it has been proven that prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to serious health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Therefore, proper asbestos collection and disposal are crucial when dealing with buried asbestos. This article will guide you through the process of handling buried asbestos safely.
Understanding the Risks of Buried Asbestos
Before delving into the process of dealing with buried asbestos, it’s important to understand the risks associated with this hazardous material. When disturbed, asbestos releases tiny fibres into the air which can be inhaled into the lungs causing severe health problems over time. This is why any work involving asbestos should be carried out with extreme caution.
Identifying Buried Asbestos
Asbestos was commonly used in a variety of building materials including roofing shingles, floor tiles, cement products and insulation materials. If your property was built or renovated before the 1980s, there’s a high chance that it may contain some form of asbestos.
If you suspect that there may be buried asbestos on your property, it is recommended to hire a professional who specializes in asbestos identification and removal. They have the necessary training and equipment to safely identify and handle this dangerous substance.
The Process of Asbestos Collection
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of buried asbestos on your property, it’s time for its safe collection. It is highly recommended that this task be left to professionals who are trained in handling hazardous materials like asbestos.
Professional teams will typically begin by securing the area where the buried asbestos is located to prevent any accidental disturbance. They will then carefully excavate the material while ensuring minimal fibre release into the air.
The collected material is then securely sealed in special containers designed for asbestos disposal. These containers are clearly labelled to indicate their hazardous contents. It’s important to note that under no circumstances should asbestos be mixed with regular waste.
Disposal of Asbestos
The final step in dealing with buried asbestos is its safe disposal. Asbestos collection and disposal should always be done according to local regulations and guidelines to ensure the safety of all involved.
Asbestos waste must be taken to a licensed landfill that accepts hazardous materials. Some regions may also have specific facilities dedicated to the safe disposal of asbestos. It is illegal and extremely dangerous to dispose of asbestos in regular landfills, burn it, or dump it in water bodies.
In many cases, the professional team handling your asbestos collection will also take care of its disposal. They will ensure that all procedures are followed correctly and provide you with a certificate of disposal for your records.
Conclusion
Dealing with buried asbestos is not a task for amateurs or DIY enthusiasts. The risks associated with improper handling are too great, both for personal health and potential legal consequences. Therefore, if you suspect the presence of buried asbestos on your property, it’s crucial to hire professionals who specialize in asbestos collection and disposal.
Remember, while the cost may seem high, it pales in comparison to the potential health risks associated with exposure to this hazardous material. So when it comes to dealing with buried asbestos, always prioritize safety over savings.