Asbestos
Information
Asbestos is a tiny
fiber that was
used in the past... primarily as insulation. It was also added to some
building materials to provide added strength and flame resistance. The
problem with asbestos is that it has been shown to cause lung cancer
and mesothelioma in individuals that were exposed to large amounts of
free-floating asbestos fibers in the air. These conditions typically
did not become apparent until around 30 years after the exposure.
Because of the health hazards of asbestos fibers, its use in insulation
and paint was banned in the 1970’s.
What
you need to know about asbestos
Homes built prior to the
1970’s could
contain asbestos in insulation, plumbing, paint, wall joint compound,
and other building materials. However, as long as the materials are in
good condition, they pose no danger. Asbestos is only a threat
if
the fibers are released into the air and can then be inhaled.
Renovations or
demolitions of
materials containing asbestos can release the fibers into the air.
Therefore, the National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air
Pollutants (NESHAP) requires the owner of any property containing
asbestos building materials to get an asbestos inspection prior to any
demolitions or renovations of that property.
How can
asbestos be removed?
If your home contains asbestos, you
have
two options: removal of the material or sealing the material to prevent
it from releasing fibers. Either of the two options require the help of
a trained professional.
How do
I know if my home contains asbestos?
If you suspect your home or a home
you are
considering buying may contain asbestos, it’s vital you get a
thorough inspection by a qualified professional.
One of the very best
resources of information about the
cancers that are caused by asbestos, is: Mesothelioma Cancer Center.
See what the US
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has to say about Asbestos:
EPA on Asbestos
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to the NACHI Standards of Practice
and the NACHI Code of Ethics.
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Proudly
Serving the Following Counties:
Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Gem, Payette,
Valley, Washington and Malheur
Oxbow Home Inspections • PO Box 2144 Eagle, ID 83616• 208.573.5300
Troy Farmer: Owner/Inspector • E-Mail: info@troyfarmer.com
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Inspections and Radon Testing, LLC
