Asbestos was once a widely used building material, valued for its durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. However, it is now recognized as a significant health hazard, linked to serious illnesses such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. In Victoria, BC, many older homes may still contain asbestos in various forms, posing potential risks to homeowners. This essay explores the presence of asbestos in homes, how to identify it, why it should be removed when hazardous, and the safe methods of remediation.
Understanding Asbestos in Homes
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, fibrous crystals. Its resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals made it a popular choice in a variety of building materials from the early 20th century until the late 1970s. However, the microscopic fibers of asbestos, when disturbed and inhaled, can become lodged in the lungs, leading to severe health conditions over time.Examples of Products Containing Asbestos:
- Insulation: Asbestos was commonly used in attic and wall insulation, particularly in older homes. Vermiculite insulation, for example, often contains asbestos.
- Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles, sheet flooring, and the adhesives used to install them frequently contained asbestos.
- Ceiling Tiles and Coatings: Asbestos was used in ceiling tiles and sprayed-on coatings (such as popcorn ceilings) for its fire-resistant properties.
- Cement Products: Asbestos cement was used in various building materials, including roof shingles, siding, and pipes.
- Textiles: Asbestos was used in certain fabrics, including fire-resistant blankets and curtains, as well as in some older appliance insulations.
Identifying Asbestos in Your Home
Determining whether your home contains asbestos can be challenging, especially since it was used in many products that are often hidden behind walls or beneath floors. Here are some steps to identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your home:- Review the Age of Your Home: Homes built before the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos. If your home was constructed or renovated during this period, it is wise to assume that some materials may contain asbestos.
- Inspect Visible Materials: Look for materials that are commonly known to contain asbestos, such as old insulation, flooring, or ceiling tiles. If you notice any signs of deterioration, such as crumbling or cracking, the risk of asbestos fibers being released increases.
- Hire a Professional Asbestos Inspector: The safest way to confirm the presence of asbestos is to hire a professional inspector. They can take samples of suspect materials and have them analyzed in a laboratory. This is the only definitive way to identify asbestos in your home.
- Consult Documentation: If you have access to building plans, renovation records, or other documentation, review them for any references to materials that may contain asbestos.
Why Remove Asbestos When It's a Hazard
Asbestos is not always immediately hazardous. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are intact and undisturbed, they generally do not release harmful fibers and are considered safe. However, when these materials are damaged, deteriorating, or disturbed (for example, during renovations), they can release asbestos fibers into the air, creating a significant health risk.Why Homeowners Should Remove Hazardous Asbestos:
- Health Risks: Inhalation of asbestos fibers is the primary health concern. The fibers can cause chronic lung conditions, including asbestosis (scarring of lung tissue), lung cancer, and mesothelioma (a rare and aggressive form of cancer). The risk increases with prolonged exposure.
- Renovation Plans: If you plan to renovate or remodel your home, disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibers into the air. It is crucial to remove or properly encapsulate these materials before any work begins.
- Property Value: Homes with asbestos, particularly when the material is damaged or deteriorating, may be less appealing to potential buyers. Remediation of asbestos can protect your home’s value and ensure a safer environment for future occupants.
When Is Asbestos Safe?
Asbestos is generally safe when it is in good condition and left undisturbed. Materials such as intact floor tiles, siding, or insulation that are not being disturbed or damaged do not pose an immediate threat. However, even these materials should be monitored regularly for signs of wear and tear.If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition, they can sometimes be left in place and encapsulated. Encapsulation involves applying a sealant to the surface of the material to prevent the release of fibers. This can be a temporary or long-term solution depending on the condition and location of the asbestos.How to Remedy Asbestos in the Home
If asbestos is found in your home and poses a risk, it’s crucial to address it safely and effectively. Here’s how to remedy asbestos:- Hire a Professional Asbestos Abatement Contractor: Asbestos removal is a complex and hazardous process that should only be performed by licensed professionals. These contractors have the training, equipment, and certifications to safely remove and dispose of asbestos-containing materials.
- Asbestos Abatement Process: The abatement process typically involves:
- Containment: The area containing asbestos is sealed off to prevent the spread of fibers. This may involve setting up barriers and using negative air pressure systems.
- Removal: The asbestos-containing materials are carefully removed by professionals wearing protective gear.
- Disposal: The removed materials are placed in sealed containers and disposed of at a designated hazardous waste facility.
- Air Monitoring: After removal, air quality tests are conducted to ensure that no asbestos fibers remain in the air.
- Encapsulation: If removal is not feasible, encapsulation may be an option. This involves covering the asbestos-containing material with a sealant to prevent the release of fibers. This is often used for materials that are in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed.
- Regular Monitoring: If asbestos-containing materials are left in place, they should be regularly inspected to ensure they remain intact and undisturbed.
Conclusion
Asbestos remains a significant concern in many older homes in Victoria, BC. While it was once valued for its durability and resistance to heat, its health risks are now well-documented. Homeowners should be vigilant in identifying potential asbestos-containing materials and understand when these materials pose a hazard. Whether through removal or encapsulation, addressing asbestos safely is crucial to protecting the health of occupants and maintaining the value of the property.References
- WorkSafeBC. (n.d.). "Asbestos in Your Home." Retrieved from https://www.worksafebc.com/en/health-safety/hazards-exposures/asbestos
- Health Canada. (n.d.). "Asbestos and your health." Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/air-quality/indoor-air-contaminants/health-risks-asbestos.html#
- British Columbia Centrre for Disease Control (n.d.). "Asbestos and Health Risks." Retrieved from http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/asbestos#:~:text=Breathing%20asbestos%20fibres%20can%20cause,to%20thickening%20of%20lung%20tissues.
- Realtylink. (n.d.). "Asbestos exposure Remains a Risk in Old Homes." Retrieved from https://realtylink.org/en/news/owning-a-home/asbestos-exposure-remains-a-risk-in-older-homes
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (n.d.). "Asbestos: What Is It and Why Is It a Problem?" Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/asbestosDisclaimer:The information provided in these posts are for general purposes only. It is not written nor intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind. No one should act upon, refrain from acting, based solely upon the materials provided & recorded, or through any hypertext links and other general information, without first seeking appropriate legal and/or other professional advice.