jeudi 15 août 2013

Understanding Different Abatement Products For Residential Use

By Cara Torres


People think of their homes as a shelter from outside threats. This is meant to provide safety, security and refuge to the occupants. Strangely, some homes are becoming the source of dangers to the residents. The very sanctuary that is supposed to provide protection has posed threats instead. Asbestos and molds are just two of the most common problems in many households. Both are health hazards that require abatement products before they cause real problems.

Molds cause toxic substances like Mycotoxins that are dangerous when inhaled by a human or animal. For this reason, molds must be immediately eliminated after its presence is established. Proper ventilation is also important. Moisture is necessary for the molds to grow. Therefore, keeping an area properly ventilated lessens the likelihood of this substance's development.

Meanwhile, asbestos has long been used in the construction industry. Its strength and durability made it a favorite among contractors in the past. It was commonly used in residential and commercial buildings alike. Unfortunately, it has also been proven to be extremely perilous. When asbestos presence is suspected, homeowners must follow specific abatement methods to ensure the safety of everyone.

Even as both substances can develop in many households under specific circumstances, presumption is never a right thing to do. The substances must be properly identified first. Do not take chances even if it is a mere suspicion. The best practice is to isolate the suspected area right away. Keep anyone away unless protective gears, such as a face mask, is worn.

Take a sample to the nearest lab to be tested by a specialist. Proper identification is necessary to determine the best abatement methods to use. The risks are way too great to leave to guesswork. A series of test is performed to confirm or deny the presence of harmful substance. This also determines the type of material presence.

Once the suspicions have been confirmed, you need to review the rules and regulations on the removal processes for the specific substance. The EPA has set guidelines specific to each material that needs treatment. This is typically the basis of local building codes as well as state regulations. Depending on the nature, type and amount of noxious substance found, the task may require professional help or may be completed on your own.

If the situation calls for professional help, you must look for a competent contractor. State permits are required for any company to perform such dangerous task. See to it that the abatement contractor is experienced and knowledgeable. Failure to implement the proper procedures may result in an unstable and unsafe job. If anything, it may complicate the problem even more.

A typical removal process entails wetting the materials to reduce its airborne capability, sealing off the area and disposing the contaminated materials to a hazardous landfill. Vents, doors and windows are covered with a plastic in an effort to contain the materials inside. For safety reasons, the removal specialists are required to wear breathing apparatuses, protective suits and eye protection while doing their job.

After the removal process, other abatement products are used to eliminate the risks of contamination. Even if the main assemblage has been removed, it is possible for some compounds to have contaminated other areas. Only after the entire structure has been checked thoroughly would it be finally declared as safe and substance-free.




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