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Asbestos Abatement Services

Worker with a clipboard inspecting air ducts in a home

Asbestos Testing By Professionals: A Comprehensive Guide

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was once used in construction. The fibrous form of mineral silicates is found freely in nature and is a known carcinogen when inhaled. It can cause severe respiratory illnesses and cancer if not removed or managed correctly.

If you suspect asbestos in your home, hiring professionals to safely test the material and provide an accurate assessment of the area is essential.

Step 1: Inspection

The first step in the asbestos testing process is to inspect potential areas of concern. Asbestos testing professionals are trained to identify and assess any visible signs of asbestos, including building materials, insulation, or other items that may contain it. They will use special testing equipment like air samplers and optical microscopes to detect any asbestos fibers that may be present in the air.

Step 2: Sampling

The next step is to take samples from the suspected area for testing. Asbestos testing professionals will use various methods to collect samples, including swiping or brushing surfaces or taking bulk samples from materials like insulation. These samples will then be taken to an accredited laboratory for testing and analysis.

Step 3: Testing & Analysis

At the lab, asbestos testing professionals will evaluate the samples collected, using sophisticated techniques such as transmission electron microscopy or polarized light microscopy to determine the presence of asbestos fibers in the sample. Once they have identified the asbestos, they can classify it by type and measure its concentration. The lab will then provide a report on their findings that describes the type of asbestos present and its levels in the sample.

Step 4: Removal

Asbestos abatement professionals are the experts who safely and effectively remove asbestos from homes and buildings. To mitigate exposure risk, they use specialized techniques to contain, encapsulate, or physically remove asbestos-containing materials (ACM). To ensure they’re removing all of the ACM, professionals will often inspect the area with unique cameras and air monitors to detect any remaining material.

Step 5: Air Monitoring

Once the asbestos has been removed, professionals will use air monitors to test the air quality and ensure that it is safe for individuals in the area. Most often, this testing will involve collecting samples of the air with specialized collection equipment and sending them off to a lab for analysis. The testing results will help determine if air quality is acceptable and if all ACM particles have been removed from the environment.

Asbestos Abatement Services is a full-service asbestos removal and abatement company in Salt Lake City, UT. Contact us today to learn more about our asbestos testing and abatement services.

December 7, 2022
Construction worker with gloves placing helmet near compressor and pneumatic air hammer chisel

Removing Lead From Your Home or Demolition Site

By Hazardous Materials Information, Household InfoNo Comments

Lead is a metal found naturally in the Salt Lake City, UT, environment. It has been used in various industrial and consumer products for centuries due to its versatility and low cost. However, lead is also highly toxic, and exposure to even small amounts can cause serious health problems.

Lead is particularly harmful to children, damaging their developing nervous system. Exposure to lead can cause learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and reduced IQ. In extreme cases, it can even lead to coma and death.

How to detect lead in your home or demolition site

Lead poisoning is a serious health hazard, especially for young children. Although lead was banned from paint and gasoline in the 1970s, it can still be found in older homes and demolition sites. If you suspect that there may be lead in your home, there are a few simple tests you can do to check for its presence.

First, you can look for paint chips or dust around windowsills, doors, and baseboards. These are common areas where old lead-based paint can flake off.

You can also conduct a rag test by dampening a white cloth with vinegar or water and rubbing it on a suspected area of lead paint. If the cloth turns reddish-brown, there is likely lead present.

Finally, you can purchase a lead testing kit from your local hardware store. These kits will give you a more accurate indication of the level of lead contamination in your home. If you find that there is lead present, it’s important to take steps to remove it safely.

Methods for removing lead from your home or demolition site

Lead is a highly toxic metal that can cause serious health problems if ingested or inhaled. Thankfully, several effective methods for removing lead from homes and demolition sites are available.

Lead abatement is the process of permanently removing lead from a structure. Lead-based paint and lead pipes are the most common sources of lead exposure in the home. These materials can release lead into the air, water, or soil when they deteriorate.

Lead removal is the process of physically removing lead-based materials from a structure. This can be done by stripping or sanding lead-based paint, or by replacing lead pipes. Lead removal should only be conducted by a certified professional.

Lead testing is the process of testing for the presence of lead in a structure. Lead testing can be conducted by a certified professional or with a lead testing kit.

Demolition lead removal – the process of safely removing lead-based materials during a demolition
Finally, during a demolition, all lead-based materials must be removed safely to avoid exposure.

Get in Touch With Asbestos Abatement Services in Salt Lake City, UT

At Asbestos Abatement Services, we’re certified to safely remove lead and other hazardous materials from your demolition site. We offer a variety of lead removal, testing, and abatement services to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more.

November 15, 2022
Interior of an office with desks, chairs and computers

Why is it Important to Safely Remove Asbestos from Your Office?

By Asbestos Information, Hazardous Materials Information, Service InformationNo Comments

Do you own or work out of an office building before the 1980s? If you answered yes, then there may be a high chance that your office contains asbestos. Asbestos is a vital, heat-resistant mineral used in construction for many years.

Asbestos removal is necessary because exposure to the material can cause serious health problems. If you think that your office may contain asbestos, you should have it tested by a professional asbestos testing service.

Reasons to Ensure Safe Removal of Asbestos from Commercial Buildings

Asbestos removal is not a DIY task

When disturbed, asbestos releases toxic fibers into the air. The fibers are so tiny and can be inhaled and trapped in the lungs, thus causing severe health issues like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. 

The removal process is complex

Asbestos removal is not an easy procedure. It demands the use of special tools and safety gear. Thus, it is best to leave asbestos removal to professionals.

Safe removal assures employees and customers of their well-being

As a business owner, you have a responsibility to ensure the safety of your employees and customers. If your office contains asbestos, you are putting them at risk of exposure. You may be liable if someone falls ill because of asbestos exposure.

Renovation after removal

You must update working spaces, retail stores, warehouses, and other commercial buildings to keep up with the changing times, enhance productivity, accommodate business growth, and so on. However, renovating the building before asbestos testing and removal can put people at risk.

To avoid health hazards and legal issues, having asbestos removed from your office is essential before you consider refurbishing it.

Does your office contain asbestos? Talk to the experts from Asbestos Abatement Services in Salt Lake City, UT!

Asbestos Abatement Services is a licensed asbestos removal company with years of experience safely removing asbestos from residential and commercial buildings. If you are moving into an old office or are planning to renovate your existing one, we can help you test for asbestos and remove it safely.

Call us today to schedule an appointment.

October 3, 2022
Lab Technician Handling an Asbestos Sample

Understanding the Dangers of Asbestos in Homes

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Salt Lake City, UT, homes built before the early 1980s may contain asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that was once used in various building materials because it is durable, fire resistant, and an excellent insulator. Known as a human carcinogen, asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other serious health problems. It is essential to be aware of the dangers and take steps to protect yourself and your family.

Where Is Asbestos Found?

Asbestos was widely used in the industrial, construction, and military fields because of its resistance to heat, electricity, and chemical damage. Some of the common asbestos products used in residential and commercial properties include:
1) Insulation
2) Flooring
3) Roofing
4) Siding
5) Pipe Covering
6) Brake pads and linings
7) Clutches
8) Fireproofing materials

What Are the Hazards of Asbestos?

1) Cancers: Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma, cancer affecting the thin membrane that covers most of your internal organs. It’s also been linked to lung, gastrointestinal, laryngeal, and ovarian cancers.
2) Asbestosis: This lung disease is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing.
3) Pleural Effusion: This is a condition in which fluid accumulates around the lungs. It will cause difficulty breathing and chest pain.
4) Pleural Plaques: These are areas of fibrous tissue that form on the pleura (the membrane around the lungs). They are usually benign (non-cancerous) but can cause severe chest pain.

How Does Asbestos Testing Work?

Visual Inspection: This method of asbestos inspection is recommended for visibly damaged or deteriorated materials, as asbestos fibers may not be visible to the naked eye.

Sample Analysis: This method involves taking a sample of the material in question and sending it to a lab for analysis. The most common type of sample analysis is called polarized light microscopy (PLM).
Surveillance: This method uses special equipment to scan the area for asbestos fibers. The two most common types of surveillance are transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Asbestos exposure can be hazardous—even lethal—which is why it’s so important to have your home inspected for asbestos if you suspect it may contain this material. Please contact Asbestos Abatement Services today if you live in the Salt Lake City area and need an asbestos removal service. With our family and pet-friendly services, you protect yourself and your family from the dangers of asbestos exposure.

September 14, 2022
A renovation worker removing kitchen wall tile during a home improvement project

How to Safely Remove Hazardous Materials During Demolition?

By Asbestos and Renovations, Asbestos Exposure, Asbestos in the homeNo Comments

Salt Lake City in Utah is a beautiful place to live, but if you’re considering demolishing an old home or commercial building, you need to be aware of the potential hazards.

If you’re planning on building demolition – commercial & residential, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure the safety of everyone involved. One of the most important aspects of demolition is hazardous material removal from the site. It includes asbestos, lead paint, and other toxins. 

A professional offers comprehensive hazardous material removal services for commercial and residential properties in Salt Lake City, UT.

Why Should You Ensure Hazardous Materials are Removed Before Building Demolition?

Building Safety – It is important to deploy asbestos/hazardous material testing before demolition to maintain a safe environment for workers and pedestrians.

Health and Environmental Concerns – Dangerous materials like asbestos can pose a serious health risk if not removed properly.

Prevent Contamination – Hazardous materials can easily contaminate the surrounding soil and water if not handled correctly.

Compliance With Regulations – Most municipalities have strict regulations governing the proper removal of hazardous materials before demolition.

Keep Your Crew Safe – Working around dangerous materials can be very risky, so it is essential to take all necessary precautions to protect your crew members.

Avoid Costly Fines – Fines for violating hazardous material removal regulations can be substantial, so taking care of this task before demolition is wise.

How Can Experts Help with Hazardous Material Removal for Demolition?

Pre-Demolition Planning: A comprehensive plan includes a hazardous material survey before starting any demolition project. 

Asbestos Abatement/Removal: It involves the removal of asbestos-containing materials before demolishing a building with tools like floor scrapers and power saws.

Collection and Removal of Asbestos Material: Professionals use high-efficiency vacuums with HEPA filters to collect and dispose of asbestos fibers.

Cleanup and Disposal of Hazardous Waste: All hazardous waste must be cleaned up and disposed of properly to avoid contaminating the environment.

Demolition of the Structure: Once all the hazardous materials have been removed, demolition can begin. It involves breaking down the structure with heavy machineries like excavators and wrecking balls.

The Utah Division of Air Quality regulates the removal of asbestos and has strict guidelines that must be followed during a demolition process.

If you need to remove hazardous materials during demolition, following the proper safety procedures is important. Asbestos Abatement Services in Salt Lake City, UT, can help you with this process.

July 29, 2022
Insulation lining the roof of a residential attic

Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM) and Demolition: What You Need to Know

By Asbestos Information, Asbestos RegulationsNo Comments

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral used in various commercial and industrial products because of its resistance to heat, fire, and many chemicals. ACM can be found in insulation materials, construction materials, brake pads, some floor tiles and adhesives, textiles, and other products.

When ACM is damaged or disturbed, it can release asbestos fibers into the air. And when inhaled, these fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
When planning a demolition project, it is crucial to be aware of the potential presence of ACM and take steps to protect yourself and others from exposure.

Types of ACM

  • There are two main types of ACM: friable and non-friable.
  • Friable ACM, like insulation materials, can be easily crumbled by hand.
  • Non-friable ACM, like floor tiles, is denser and harder to break apart.
  • Both types of ACM can release asbestos fibers into the air when damaged or disturbed.

How to Identify ACM

The only way to definitively identify ACM is through laboratory testing of a sample of the material in question.

However, some visual cues can indicate the presence of ACM.

For example, friable ACM is often soft and spongy, while non-friable ACM is typically hard and dense. ACM may also be marked with labels or warnings indicating the presence of asbestos. If you suspect a material may contain asbestos, it is best to assume it and take appropriate precautions.

Precautions for Handling ACM

Whether it is asbestos removal, mitigation, or asbestos testing, these are all specialized services that should be performed by trained and certified professionals only.

Some basic precautions to take include:

  • Wetting the material before disturbing it will help to keep asbestos fibers from becoming airborne
  • Wearing personal protective equipment, including a respirator with an appropriate filter, gloves, and eye protection
  • Working in well-ventilated areas
  • Keeping the work area clean and free of debris

Asbestos Abatement Services in Salt Lake City, UT, offers removal, testing, and disposal so you can be confident the job is done correctly and safely.

If you have any questions about asbestos or your demolition project, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We are happy to help!

June 14, 2022
House with for sale and sold signs in front yard

5 Reasons To Have an Asbestos and Lead Survey

By Asbestos in the home, Service InformationNo Comments

Asbestos and lead are two extremely dangerous materials that are commonly found in older properties. Both cannot be detected without testing, and neither can be seen. This makes them both incredibly dangerous to your health. A lead and asbestos survey should be completed on properties that you own. It can defend you and your family from a life of illnesses as well as give you peace of mind when completing remodels and other construction projects on your property.

You Own an Older Building

Older buildings are notorious for having lead paint and asbestos-containing materials. Even after remodels, there is often asbestos and lead paint left on the premises. Lead paint is never removed during a remodel, and it is painted over with a fresh coat. Asbestos in insulation, flooring, roofing, and other areas is usually not disturbed during a basic remodel. This alone makes older buildings and homes a major concern.

To Protect Your Health

Lead and asbestos both cause debilitating illnesses. Young children, the elderly, and women who are pregnant are at the most risk for lead poisoning. On the other hand, asbestos is a hazard to everyone that comes into the building or home. An asbestos and lead inspection could save you a lot of illnesses in the future.

You Are Having A Baby

Children, especially young children, are at the highest risk of lead paint poisoning. Children like to explore with their mouths; because of this, they are at a higher risk. Lead poisoning can cause seizures and even death. It is best to have a lead survey if you want to have children on the property.

You Are Selling Your Home

Selling a home comes with a lot of obligations; one of those is handling inspections. A lead and asbestos inspection should be completed before you sell the property. This is to protect everyone involved. If you are considering acquiring a new home, ask for asbestos and lead paint tests, as they are not part of a regular home inspection.

State Law Compliance

Commercial properties must abide by certain laws and regulations. Asbestos is highly regulated in commercial properties, especially those that are being demolished. You will want to have an asbestos survey completed, as asbestos can float into the outside air and expose innocent people.

As you can see, asbestos and lead surveys are extremely important. Play it safe and have the two surveys completed. It not only protects you from the dangerous materials, but it also protects everyone that could enter your home or business.

May 17, 2022
View of an attic insulated with spray foam

Asbestos Can Be Identified Using Different Methods

By Asbestos and Renovations, Asbestos in the home, Asbestos Information, Service InformationNo Comments

Asbestos analysis is the only sure way to know if a property has asbestos-containing materials. You can easily make assumptions that a property built in the 1980s will likely have asbestos, but the only way to know for certain is through proper testing. Certified asbestos abatement professionals can test and inspect your property and determine if there is asbestos on the property. Below, we will discuss methods that are used when checking properties for asbestos fibers.

Construction Material Samples

This is the most popular form of asbestos testing that is completed for homes and businesses. A certified asbestos inspector will gather several samples from different areas of the home or business. Once assembled, these samples will be sent to a laboratory, where they will be tested. This is a highly accurate test and can give you the information you need for asbestos abatement.

Air Samples

In some instances, it is important to test the air for asbestos fibers. This method only identifies if there are active asbestos fibers in the air of a building. This test is often more affordable and faster than material sample testing. This test measures friable asbestos but not asbestos-containing materials on a property.

Water and Soil Testing

The above two methods are used the most in residential and commercial properties asbestos testing. Water and soil testing is used to see if asbestos is being illegally dumped in areas. This testing is used for environmental investigations.

If you want a test that tests your home or business for asbestos, the best all-around test is the testing of construction materials. It is important to know if you have asbestos on the property and where it is located. Testing a property for asbestos should be completed to ensure everyone is safe from asbestos fibers and exposure.

May 3, 2022
Exterior view of a family home

Should Asbestos Still Be A Concern?

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos-related deaths have remained constant over the last decade and are predicted to remain stable. This is not good news, as we all hope for a decrease in the number of deaths caused by the dangerous fiber. This alone should answer the question about asbestos still being a concern. Asbestos will remain a concern until it is completely banned and all properties are clear from asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos In Buildings

Many older buildings are receiving facelifts and being transformed into more modern-looking buildings. This is exceptionally dangerous because the older buildings still contain some materials with asbestos. This makes the commercial properties hazardous to employees and clients. Unfortunately, older buildings are not the only concern, as we are seeing newer commercial properties with asbestos. It is important to have all commercial properties tested for asbestos as a precaution.

Asbestos In Homes

Older homes usually have asbestos-containing materials. This is no surprise, and we see many people having their older homes tested and asbestos removed. This is a major step in our fight against asbestos exposure, but newly constructed homes are also of concern. Newer homes have been found to contain trace amounts of asbestos. This is a lot better than older homes, but even trace amounts allow for asbestos exposure to you and your family. If you have recently had a new home built, it is best to follow up with an asbestos test.

The only way we will ever be free from asbestos exposure and asbestos-related illnesses is through better education. More education on asbestos can lead to a much-needed ban. If asbestos products are banned, there will be no more properties constructed using asbestos, nor asbestos in any other products. Once banned, we can begin to move forward from the hazardous and deadly fiber known as asbestos.

April 29, 2022
Street signs saying myths and facts in front of road and landscape

Myths About Asbestos That You Need To Know About!

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos is all over the media, but is everything they are saying true? In many cases, myths are being spread about the hazardous fiber. Luckily, Utah Asbestos Abatement has the truth about asbestos and would love to educate you on the hazards better.

It Is Easy To Spot Asbestos

This is a significant myth because asbestos cannot be visibly seen! Asbestos is incorporated into materials to create a sturdier and more fire-resistant product. There is only one way to know if a material contains asbestos, and that is through asbestos testing. We can all make assumptions based on the age of a home, but it is impossible actually to see the asbestos fibers in products.

Some Forms Of Asbestos Are Safe

While non-friable asbestos is not of immediate danger, it is still a danger to you and your family. All forms of asbestos are hazardous and can cause exposure, leading to illnesses and possible cancer. If a property has asbestos, it needs to be removed as soon as possible!

Asbestos-Related Illnesses Are Contagious

Asbestos exposure causes severe respiratory illnesses, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. It may seem that respiratory illnesses are contagious, but they are not in this case. Asbestos-related illnesses only occur in those who have been exposed to asbestos fibers.

Asbestos Exposure Only Occurs Through Specific Occupations

It was once thought that asbestos exposure only occurred in miners, construction workers, and other occupations where there was asbestos. Unfortunately, people are being exposed in their own homes. This makes asbestos exposure extremely hazardous, as we are now seeing children with asbestos-related illnesses.

Newer Properties Are Free Of Asbestos

Newly built properties are not immune to asbestos-containing materials. It was once thought that only older properties contained asbestos, but since asbestos is not fully banned, we are seeing new homes testing positive for asbestos-containing materials.

As you can see, there are many myths floating around about asbestos. It is important to keep up to date on all asbestos-related news. This helps to protect you and your family from exposure.

April 4, 2022
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