
If your home was constructed pre-1970, there is a likelihood that asbestos is present, as this harmful material was commonly used before we finally discovered the harm asbestos causes when inhaled. Indeed, asbestos was used as far back as the Roman times; archeologists have found earthenware pots that contained elements of asbestos, and it was only in the last half of the 20th century that we finally made the connection with asbestos and respiratory disease.
Asbestosis & Lung Cancer
Asbestos is naturally found in some parts of the world and when agitated, the material breaks up into tiny slivers that easily become airborne and if they should be inhaled, they can lodge in the lung tissue and might be dormant for years before issues arise. In many ways, asbestos can be a silent killer and the person that inhaled the slivers has no idea what has occurred and may not show symptoms for years.
Asbestos Removal
If you take a look at the number of firms that offer asbestos removal services in Perth, it is clear to see this is a busy sector, and 50 years after we discovered the truth about asbestos, we are still trying to eradicate the substance from commercial and residential buildings.
Testing for the Presence of Asbestos
If you even suspect that asbestos might be present in your home or business premises, you should contact a company that specialises in asbestos testing and safe removal. If, for example, you are planning to replace an old factory roof, there is a chance that asbestos is present and rather than taking a chance, call in a company that provides a professional asbestos testing and removal service. Of course, asbestos does not present a danger if it remains undisturbed, it is only when it is removed that minute slivers of the material can become airborne, so whatever you do, do not agitate the roofing sheets, as this is all it takes to send the material airborne.
Safe Removal
Asbestos is extremely dangerous and the only people who can remove it from a site are those who have been trained specifically for the task. Once asbestos has been detected, the technicians wear their protective suits and after clearing the area, they will take steps to remove the substance safely. Once this has been done, you are free to carry on with your building project and will never again have to worry about the dangers of asbestos.