Prevention

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Asbestos is a known human carcinogen and can cause chronic lung disease as well as lung and other cancers.  

EPA'S ASBESTOS DO'S AND DON'TS FOR THE HOMEOWNER

  • Do leave undamaged asbestos-containing materials alone.
  • Do keep activities to a minimum in any areas having damaged material that may contain asbestos, including limiting children's access to any materials that may contain asbestos.
  • Do take every precaution to avoid damaging asbestos-containing material.
  • Do have removal and major repair done by people trained and qualified in handling asbestos. It is highly recommended that sampling and minor repair also be done by a trained and accredited asbestos professional.
  • Don't dust, sweep, or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos.
  • Don't saw, sand, scrape, or drill holes in asbestos-containing materials.
  • Don't use abrasive pads or brushes on power strippers to strip wax from asbestos flooring. Never use a power stripper on flooring that may contain asbestos.
  • Don't sand or try to level asbestos flooring or its backing. When asbestos flooring needs replacing install new floor covering over it, if possible.
  • Don't track material that could contain asbestos through the house. If you cannot avoid walking through the area, have it cleaned with a wet mop. If the material is from a damaged area or if a large area must be cleaned, call an asbestos professional.

 

HIRING AN ASBESTOS PROFESSIONAL

According to the EPA, there are two main types of accredited asbestos professionals that can be hired to handle asbestos-containing material: Asbestos Inspectors & Asbestos Contractors.

Asbestos Inspectors survey the case of asbestos in a place. These individuals can “inspect a home or building, assess conditions, take samples of suspected materials for testing, and advise about what corrections are needed. If repair or removal of asbestos materials is chosen, inspectors can ensure the corrective-action contractor has followed proper procedures, including proper clean up, and can monitor the air to ensure no increase of asbestos fibers.”

Asbestos Contractors. These professionals can repair or remove asbestos materials.

For a list of contractors in your state, click here