In 1989, EPA (the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) issued a rule prohibiting the importation, manufacture, processing, and distribution of asbestos products. Later, this rule was contested by foreign and domestic industries and ultimately the court invalidated the rule. It was based on the finding of the EPA that they did not present enough evidence that justifies the comprehensive ban. Requirements for asbestos repairing have increased significantly especially when it comes to meeting the standards of Colorado homes.
Due to the heavy regulations on asbestos manufacturing and its usage, the product is no longer used in buildings as widely as it was before. However, asbestos is still used in the industry and contaminates many consumer products. Furthermore, asbestos as a highly effective and inexpensive fire-retardant material was used for many home constructions between 1940 and 1970. Therefore, it can be found in numerous homes across the United States.
Asbestos can be found in many household materials:
- Fiber cement siding
- Blown-in attic insulation
- Insulation for HVAC ducts
- Floor tile adhesive
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Plaster
- Materials for roofing
- Some types of linoleum
- Some types of paint
- Siding materials
- Window glazing and caulking
With the protocols in mind, today the use of asbestos has dropped significantly, but chrysotile asbestos is still being used in the U.S. and they are imported from China. Here in the U.S., the chlorine industry has the largest consumer. There are multiple industries that use chrysotile in their various products which include steel, food, aluminum, soap, water treatment products, cleaning products, etc.
The bottom line is, health risks from asbestos continue to be a threat. If you are concerned with the presence of asbestos in your home, get in touch with a company that provides asbestos repairing services. They can also help you with asbestos abatement, and removal process.
Asbestos Repairing to Prevent Health Risks
Do not touch asbestos materials without proper gear even if it is a minor repair. Improper handling of worn-out asbestos can create hazards. It is better that contact a professional team for asbestos handling to prevent health risks. Disturbed fibers from asbestos will not only harm the residents in your home but can also spread to nearby buildings. The professionals have the training to handle worn-out asbestos and ensure complete peace of mind. They can easily find out the hidden areas of asbestos treatment. The objective is to keep the products stable as much as possible. Remember, it is not a minor repair if the damaged area is bigger than the size of your hand.
Points to Remember
It is important to note that no amount of asbestos exposure is safe. However, it is not hazardous if your home has a very small presence of asbestos-containing material. Materials that are in good condition will not release asbestos fibers into the air. The danger arises only if the materials are old enough. This happens usually from natural deterioration or several renovations over years. Shabby materials containing asbestos can sway, scrap, or become powder and this is when it becomes a hazard.
We know that your peace of mind is priceless and this is the reason our team comes to you with proper training in asbestos removal. We at ECOS Environmental and Disaster Restoration can efficiently handle worn-out asbestos, repair them, and even test the materials in your home that contain hazardous asbestos.
Finally
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have recognized the health threats associated with asbestos. Keep the safety protocols in mind and get in touch with the experts at ECOS Environmental and Disaster Restoration. We are an accredited team with experienced technicians who can handle asbestos with care.
As a disaster restoration team in Colorado, we know how to take things under control while reducing the risks and ensuring healthy living conditions. Reach our help desk at 888-507-3262.
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