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Home » Latest news » Tradesmen Beware – The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos in Home Renovations

Tradesmen Beware – The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos in Home Renovations

Tradesmen Beware - The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos in Home Renovations

The Invisible Risk in Older Homes

Asbestos, a once-popular construction material known for its durability and heat resistance, now poses significant health risks, especially in homes built before 1999. For tradesmen and homeowners alike, understanding the risks associated with asbestos during renovations is critical. Whether you’re installing new flooring, replacing windows, or updating your kitchen, the presence of asbestos can turn a simple job into a hazardous task.

The Risks Are Real

Asbestos fibres, when disturbed, can become airborne and easily inhaled, leading to serious respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These health risks highlight the importance of proper identification and management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) during any home improvement project.

Why Visual Inspection Isn’t Enough

A common misconception is that asbestos can be identified through a simple visual inspection. This is a dangerous assumption. As licensed asbestos removal professionals, we often encounter situations where even experts require detailed testing to confirm the presence of asbestos. Homeowners and tradesmen should never rely on unqualified assertions regarding asbestos. The only definitive way to determine its presence is through a professional asbestos survey.

The High Cost of Ignorance

Ignoring the potential presence of asbestos can lead to severe consequences. We’ve seen numerous cases where entire homes have become contaminated because asbestos was not properly managed. This contamination can lead to the disposal of personal belongings, from clothes to furniture, and significantly increase the cost and scope of clean-up operations. The remediation costs often far exceed what a preemptive asbestos survey and controlled removal would have cost.

Protect Yourself and Your Home

Before starting any renovation:

  1. Get an Asbestos Survey: If your home was built before 1999, it’s advisable to have a comprehensive asbestos survey done. This survey will identify any ACMs and provide guidance on how to handle them.
  2. Hire Licensed Professionals: For any work that involves potential asbestos-containing materials, ensure you engage licensed professionals who are trained and equipped to handle asbestos safely.
  3. Stay Informed: Educate yourself and your tradesmen about the places where asbestos might be found in your home, such as insulation, tiles, and around old pipes.

By taking these steps, you ensure not only the safety of the workers but also the long-term health and safety of everyone who lives in your home.

Conclusion

Renovating an older home doesn’t have to be a risky venture fraught with health hazards. With proper precautions and professional guidance, you can upgrade your living space safely and efficiently. Remember, when it comes to asbestos, cutting corners can have devastating consequences. Invest in safety, and maintain the health of your renovation team and family.

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