How is Asbestos Removed?
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Asbestos is a group of fibers, both natural and man-made, that were widely used prior to mid-1970s to insulate buildings, prepare roof shingles and dry walls, and for the installation of cement pipes and floor tiles. While asbestos is still part of construction materials, certain fibers are not longer being used because of their highly porous consistence that makes them more likely to be inhaled.
Removal of asbestos is essential to prevent a series of respiratory problems. Because asbestos can be inhaled and remain in the lungs for several years, it can lead to anything from shortness of breath and coughing to lung cancer and even death.
Removal of asbestos is essential for the health of people residing in a building. Removal of asbestos is also the legal responsibility of the owner of the building, and can only be attempted by licensed asbestos abatement contractors. Once a building owner identifies the presence of asbestos, he should try and remove it as soon as possible.
Removal of asbestos can be done through a series of methods, although controlled wet stripping is the preferred way because it controls the amount of dust released into the environment during removal. Dry stripping is another popular method for removal of asbestos because of its low price and easiness of use. However, dry stripping is not recommended in most cases because it produces a high level of dust.
If removal of asbestos is not feasible, it is also possible to seal asbestos so it does not enter the environment. Sealing is sometimes preferred over the removal of asbestos because it is quicker and produces less dust. Sealing can be done through paneling or the use of PVC adhesive or a bitumastic paint. Wallpaper and hardboard panels can also be used to seal asbestos as long as a strong adhesive is applied.
In any occasion when removal of asbestos is being attempted, workers should wear protective masks and label the area so passers-by are warned about potential risks. If you think you have asbestos in your home, always contact a certified contractor to check the building and confirm your findings.
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3
just a guess, but maybe negative pressure means that they use a vacuum-like system to suck the asbestos away? - anon3202
2
When a person says that asbestos is always removed under negative pressure, what does this mean? - anon3194
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This article is entirely inside out. I've been researching asbestos and abatement, and even the American Lung Association (not to mention all the federal agencies that regulate asbestos) say removal is the remedy of last resort, enclosure or encapsulation being absolutely preferred (although eventually it will have to be removed).
Also, there's a whole lot more to removal than touched on here. It's a very dangerous proposition, and someone taking the brief advice in this article could wind up badly exposed, their whole home contaminated, and in violation of numerous state and local laws. This is pretty irresponsible.
- anon1079
Editor's reply: Thanks for well-informed your input--I reviewed our article, and I think it's pretty clear that no one should attempt to remove asbestos without consulting a professional.
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Diana Bocco
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