Calgary Asbestos Abatement: 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid During Asbestos Abatement

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in building materials until the late 20th century. It can be found in many older homes and buildings in Calgary. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they release tiny fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Because of these risks, asbestos abatement— the process of safely removing or containing asbestos—is crucial. However, this process is complex and requires careful handling. At 24/7 Restoration, we’ve seen firsthand how common mistakes during asbestos abatement can lead to unnecessary risks. Here are three common mistakes to avoid during asbestos abatement in Calgary.

1. Attempting DIY Asbestos Removal

One of the most dangerous mistakes homeowners can make is attempting to remove asbestos themselves. While it may seem like a way to save money, DIY asbestos removal can put you and your family at serious risk.

Why DIY is Dangerous:

• Lack of Expertise: Asbestos abatement requires specialized knowledge and training. Without proper expertise, it’s easy to disturb asbestos fibers, releasing them into the air where they can be inhaled.

• Inadequate Equipment: Professional asbestos abatement involves using specialized equipment, such as HEPA-filtered vacuums, negative air pressure machines, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Most homeowners do not have access to this equipment, making DIY removal both ineffective and hazardous.

• Legal and Environmental Risks: Improper disposal of asbestos waste can lead to legal penalties and environmental harm. Asbestos is classified as hazardous waste, and there are strict regulations governing its disposal. Professional abatement companies are familiar with these regulations and ensure that asbestos is disposed of safely and legally.

To avoid these risks, it’s essential to hire certified professionals like 24/7 Restoration for asbestos abatement. Our team is trained to handle asbestos safely and in compliance with all regulations, ensuring that your home is free from asbestos hazards.

2. Not Conducting a Thorough Asbestos Inspection

Another common mistake is failing to conduct a thorough asbestos inspection before beginning renovation or demolition work. Asbestos can be hidden in various materials throughout your home, including insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and even in the glue that holds down tiles or wallpaper. Without a proper inspection, you may unknowingly disturb ACMs, releasing harmful fibers into the air.

Why Inspections Are Essential:

• Hidden Dangers: Asbestos is often hidden behind walls, under floors, or in other hard-to-reach areas. A thorough inspection by a certified asbestos inspector is necessary to identify all potential sources of asbestos in your home.

• Accurate Identification: Not all materials that appear to be asbestos actually contain asbestos. A professional inspection includes testing samples of suspect materials to confirm the presence of asbestos. This ensures that only materials that actually contain asbestos are removed, avoiding unnecessary work and expense.

• Prevention of Unintended Exposure: If asbestos is not identified before work begins, you risk exposing yourself, your family, and workers to harmful asbestos fibers. A professional inspection ensures that all asbestos is identified and properly managed before any work starts.

Before undertaking any renovation or demolition work, always schedule a professional asbestos inspection. At 24/7 Restoration, we provide comprehensive asbestos inspections to ensure your home is safe before any work begins.

3. Choosing the Wrong Asbestos Abatement Company

Finally, choosing the wrong asbestos abatement company can be a costly mistake. Not all companies are created equal, and hiring a company without the proper certifications, experience, or reputation can lead to poor results and potential safety hazards.

What to Look for in a Company:

• Certifications and Licensing: Ensure that the asbestos abatement company is certified and licensed to perform asbestos removal in Calgary. Certifications demonstrate that the company has met industry standards for safety and competence.

• Experience and Expertise: Look for a company with a proven track record in asbestos abatement. Experienced companies are more likely to have encountered and successfully managed a wide range of asbestos-related challenges.

• Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients. A reputable company should have positive reviews and be willing to provide references. Good customer service and clear communication are also important factors to consider.

At 24/7 Restoration, we pride ourselves on our certifications, extensive experience, and positive reputation. We are committed to providing safe, effective asbestos abatement services that meet the highest standards.

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