When Does a Building Need an Asbestos Survey?
Asbestos is a mineral fiber used in construction materials, generally as insulation or a fire-retardant. Asbestos is a carcinogen, so to prevent microscopic asbestos particles from being unexpectedly inhaled, an asbestos survey is required when damage to asbestos-containing materials is discovered, or before building demolition or remodeling.
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Building Destruction and Remodeling
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When a building is set to be demolished or significantly remodeled and it is suspected that asbestos was used in the building process, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires that an asbestos survey be completed before any demolition or remodeling can begin. The asbestos survey identifies the location of any asbestos in the building. Any activities that will cause damage to materials containing asbestos must then be completed in compliance with all laws regarding the removal of hazardous materials.
Damaged Asbestos Materials
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Asbestos surveys are performed when asbestos-containing material is damaged. The EPA recommends that if these materials become damaged, people and animals should be kept away from the area until it can be inspected. In some cases, asbestos-containing products can be repaired by a certified professional rather than removed.
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Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
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Asbestos exposure increases your chance of lung disease. The most common ailments associated with asbestos are asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. It can take several years for symptoms to appear after exposure, and continued exposure, especially when combined with smoking, can increase the potential health risks.
Asbestos Use Today
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Despite efforts to ban asbestos, it can still be present in products and materials. The EPA banned asbestos in 1989, but the ban was overturned by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans in 1991. According to the EPA, the court ruling allowed the asbestos ban to remain in regard to flooring felt, rollboard and corrugated, commercial or specialty paper and for products that historically have not contained asbestos, known as "new uses" of asbestos.
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References
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