What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of many fibres.
These fibres are incredibly strong, highly resistant to heat, fire and chemicals. Asbestos was commonly used in many building materials and household items.
Buildings constructed or renovated before 2000 are likely to contain asbestos. It is important to note that these materials are not dangerous if they are in good condition and remain undisturbed.
The most common types of asbestos fibres are chrysotile (white), amosite (brown) and crocidolite (blue), of which laboratory analysis is required to identify the different types.
What’s the big deal about asbestos?
It may seem easy enough to remove the ACM yourself, but it is important to understand the risks involved. Asbestos is a proven human carcinogen. There are no safe lower limits of exposure - once you disturb asbestos it can become airborne and therefore inhaled.
Inhaling significant quantities of asbestos can cause asbestosis (scarring of lung tissue), mesothelioma (malignant tumours, cancers that develop around the lungs or intestine), pleural plaques (thickening of membranes around the lungs), cancer of the lung, larynx and ovary. You may also experience symptoms such as breathing difficulties and ‘scarring’ of the lung.
We assess any material that may contain asbestos and get it professionally tested. Once we receive the results, we can determine the best course of action, without putting anyone at risk.
We have qualified professionals with the right equipment to get the job done quickly, efficiently and most importantly, safely.
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I think my house has asbestos. What should I do?
Firstly, don’t panic!
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was used in construction materials from the 1920’s to mid 80’s - though houses built into the early 2000’s may also have ACM (asbestos containing material).
The fibre is resistant to heat, electricity and corrosion, which makes the mineral incredibly useful but also highly toxic when exposed.
Generally asbestos is safe when the material is kept in good condition - it is not a risk merely by the presence of it. The problem arises when the fibres become airborne, such as if the ACM is in poor condition or disturbed (e.g. house renovation).
If you suspect your property has ACM in poor condition or you are planning renovations, we strongly advise testing by a third party.
At NAR, we follow stringent H&S policies to safely contain and remove the ACM. We provide you with all documentation, giving you peace of mind the ACM has been disposed of safely and correctly.
If the ACM does not need to be removed, we can help you monitor and maintain.
Contact us today if you need advice - 09 972 7822
How much does Asbestos Removal Cost?
There are a lot of factors in asbestos removal. Is scaffolding required, will removing it expose the building to weather damage, is it friable or non-friable? We measure the amount of ACM to be removed and supply you with a quote.
This will include:
- Preparation of the site and air monitoring if required
- All documentation that gives you peace of mind the ACM has been disposed of safely and correctly
- Third Party testing and clearance certificates to verify the area is safe to reoccupy
Removal is not always your only option. If it is intact and not decaying, then monitoring and maintenance can be just as effective - contact us to see how we can help you.
