Know When to Hire A Professional for Asbestos Testing in Manassas, VA
Even if you know about the dangers of asbestos, you may not be sure how your Manassas, VA home will be tested for asbestos. Knowing what to expect from asbestos testing can ease your concerns and answer some basic questions regarding the toxic substance in your Manassas home.
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral commonly used in construction, insulation, paint, home appliances, car parts and even clothing until recent years. While the insulation properties were highly prized, it wasn't until recently that the health dangers of asbestos were discovered. Continuous exposure to asbestos can lead to lung cancer. While it takes years of exposure before health problems are evident, this delay can’t lull us into doubting the problems of asbestos in Manassas, VA homes and workplaces.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says if building materials in your home aren’t damaged and won’t be disturbed, you do not need to have your home tested for asbestos. Material that is in good condition can be left undisturbed.
But if you plan to remodel your home, or your home has sustained damage such as crumbling drywall or deteriorating insulation, it could disturb the building material stability and release asbestos fibers into the air. In this case, a trained and accredited asbestos professional should take samples for testing and analysis. Qualified professionals know what to look for and how to safely respond if they find asbestos. Because there is an elevated health risk if fibers become friable, or airborne, sampling can actually be more hazardous than leaving the material alone. Asbestos testing is performed under strict government protocols by certified asbestos experts at accredited labs. Handling or relocation of asbestos samples by the untrained is not recommended.
Asbestos fibers are found in schools, homes, offices, medical facilities, and any other building constructed before 1978. When a contaminated building is remodeled or painted, the asbestos fibers are disturbed, which can force microscopic asbestos fibers into the air of your Manassas home or workplace. When inhaled, the asbestos fibers become lodged in the lining of the lungs. This is how health problems begin.
Learning about the dangers of asbestos and the health problems associated with it is the best defense against this hazardous material. Trusting accredited asbestos professionals to handle the asbestos testing and removal process is essential for everyone's safety.
