How to identify and safely remove asbestos roofing material
ACRM (asbestos containing roofing material) can present certain problems and concerns if discovered. However, for the most part simply having this material present on your roof does not equate to a danger. The primary area of concern is when removing or replacing the covering. It is very important this procedure be handled in the proper way with a licensed professional leading the project to ensure safe and legal disposal guidelines are met.
Identification of Asbestos Roofing Material
Safe Abatement Procedures for asbestos roofing material
***Warning – many jurisdictions require a trained professional to remove asbestos containing material, the information here is for research purposes only***
You may also need to hire a third party monitoring company to test the air on site during removal. They will monitor the PPM (parts per million) in the air and stop work if it exceeds a safe level.
1) SUIT UP – Anytime you are working with asbestos roofing material, Wear a Teflon suit and respirator mask while removing the material.
2) TARP OFF – The area 12 ft. around the perimeter should be tarped to stop any falling debris (the asbestosroofing material), Additionally caution tape is recommended to warn bystanders off the danger zone.
3) WET DOWN the surface with water thoroughly- the moisture helps bind and contain any fibers present.
4) CAREFULLY REMOVE AND BAG – Slowly remove the material in section you can personally handle without dropping or breaking. Bag all material immediately and seal with appropriate tape etc. Lable bags as containing asbestos. ***special note, you must inform your disposal company the material being hauled contains asbestos. Most have a significant up charge and require landfill approval prior to disposing of asbestos roofing material***
5) SWEEP – all remaining material needs to be wet down, swept up and bagged. Avoid using a vacuum as the discharge air may contain hazardous fibers. Wrap up the rest in the tarp, tape and dispose of the tarp as well.
Health Concerns with Asbestos Containing Roofing Material:
Caution without fear is called for when handling this type of material. The most well stated concern is the cancer Mesothelioma when the word asbestos is brought up. The be realistic the chances of this disease in relation to removing some asbestos roofing material is EXTREMELY LOW. The short term side effects of shortness of breath and difficulty breathing are the most common problems. However, it is interesting to note that there seems to be a delay in the onset of serious symptoms related to inhalation on ACM. There is also a strong link to asbestos exposure greatly increasing the risk of developing a serious condition in SMOKERS. The combination here is a true concern. Most serious cases are from unprotected workers who were actually involved in the production of asbestos roofing material with repeated exposure over many years. Since the repercussions of inadequate protection in regards to handling asbestos containing roofing materials are so high please-
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