Residential Asbestos Testing
Why Is It Important?
The presence of high levels of asbestos fibres in the air has been linked to several life threatening illnesses. If you suspect that this toxic substance is present in your house, ask for professional residential asbestos testing. Businesses should also schedule commercial asbestos testing to ensure a safe working environment.
Why Do You Need Asbestos Testing?
Prior to knowing the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to high concentrations of asbestos, this substance was used in a number of household and commercial products. Some of these might still be present in your home or business property.
If the asbestos fibres are tightly bound (or enclosed) and are not likely to be released into the air, there are no significant health risks. The potential danger occurs when these fibres are released into the air and then inhaled.
Only an asbestos inspection can determine whether or not your property is at risk. Once you know the extent of the problem, a proper remediation plan can be put in place. Remember that the tiny asbestos fibres are not easily visible, so you should not attempt an inspection on your own and expose yourself further.
What are the health risks associated with asbestos exposure?
- Certain types of lung cancer
- Asbestosis - a scarring of the lungs that makes breathing difficult
- Mesothelioma - an otherwise rare cancer of the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity
- Cancer of the larynx
- Ovarian cancer
- There is also evidence that asbestos can cause cancer of the pharynx and stomach
Which Products May Contain Asbestos?
Today, not too many products contain asbestos, and those that do are regulated and must be properly labelled. However, before the 1970s, many types of building materials and products used in the home contained asbestos.
These include:
- Asbestos cement roofing, roofing felt, shingles and siding
- Vermiculite attic insulation
- Vinyl asbestos, asphalt and rubber floor tiles, including the backing and adhesives used to install floor tile
- Acoustical ceiling tiles that contain asbestos
- Steam pipes, furnace ducts, hot water tanks and boilers insulated with an asbestos blanket or asbestos paper tape
- Cement sheet, millboard and paper used to insulate furnaces and wood burning stoves
- Soundproofing or decorative material sprayed on walls and ceilings
- Patching and joint compounds for walls and ceilings—sanding, scraping or drilling could release fibres into the air
- Textured paints
- Door gaskets in furnaces, wood and coal stoves
- Artificial ashes and embers used in gas fireplaces
- Older ironing board covers, stovetop pads and fireproof gloves
- Older models of some hairdryers
- Vehicle brake pads, linings, clutch facings and gaskets
If you suspect asbestos contamination, the safest approach is to treat the material as if it does contain the carcinogen (cancer causing substance). Avoid contact and schedule residential or commercial asbestos testing immediately.
Asbestos Environmental Of Canada (AEOC) provides certified residential and commercial asbestos testing services to determine if this cancer-causing substance is present in your home or business premises.
Whether you need residential or commercial asbestos testing, call Asbestos Environmental Of Canada today at 416-985-5025.
