When choosing an asbestos consultant, it is important to find one that will work closely with you throughout the process of Asbestos abatement. During the first consultation, it is a good idea to prepare a written list of all the Asbestos materials in your building so that you can have a better idea of the size and quantity of asbestos you have. A good asbestos consultant will also be able to review the pictures of your building materials to determine the exact asbestos concentration present. Since different people suffer from different symptoms, you may want to also get information about any prior health issues that you may have had. If so, this would be information that the asbestos consultants can use to determine whether you are a potential candidate for Asbestos abatement or not.
There are two types of Asbestos: chrysotile and amosite. Chrysotile-containing materials are generally not harmful, as they are coated or thin-wired, and amosite-containing materials contain slow-moving fibers that can become airborne over time and inhaled by humans. These fibers can become mesothelioma, if they are inhaled for long enough. A qualified asbestos consultant will be able to tell you the level of Asbestos in your building, as well as where in your building the Asbestos-containing material is located.
During the initial consultation, the consultant will conduct both air and ground tests. The purpose of these tests is to find out if any part of your building materials, such as drywall or insulation, contains asbestos. The consultant may also conduct visual and structural inspections. If the tests detect Asbestos-containing materials, the consultant may conduct a wet/dry inventory or a chemical/hazmating inspection. Based on their findings, the consultant will determine if there is a need for Asbestos Inspectors.
Many states require an asbestos consultant to perform asbestos abatement. An asbestos abatement expert is trained to remove or dispose of the Asbestos contained in damaged or dislocated buildings, and to keep the area free of Asbestos contamination. In addition to performing Asbestos inspections, an asbestos consultant can also offer guidance about how to make your property safer. They may suggest that you install new fire escapes or other safety features, take action to correct leaky roofs and plumbing, and provide information about safe asbestos disposal.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to Asbestos, the first step is to inform your building materials supplier and/or contractor. If you believe you have been exposed, you should not touch the fibers. You will also need to contact an asbestos consultant for advice and testing. The consultant will assess your symptoms and then help you determine the best way to test for Asbestos in your air. If necessary, they will help you obtain permits for testing and removal.
A second concern with Asbestos containing building materials is that they can cause lung cancer, particularly if you work in an office building that is more than 50 years old. Even if workers do not get ill from Asbestos exposure, some types of Asbestos are cancer causing. To protect yourself, Asbestos consultants can help you understand your legal liabilities, and about the laws that apply to your particular area. It is very important that you let your doctor know about your concerns about Asbestos-containing building materials. Doctors can help you determine if you have Asbestos allergies and can refer you to a medical specialist if the Asbestos in your lungs or chest feels like something you should be aware of.