Asbestos Containing Materials

September 7th, 2008 by admin

The dangers and risks of hazardous fiber exposure have become much more evident in the last thirty years or so, which is why you need to learn more about asbestos containing materials so that you can construct your new business with the right materials, or undergo the right procedures to have the hazardous fibers removed from your building.

Flooring materials often contain asbestos, especially if the building was built before the 1970’s, which is when the federal government starting regulating the use of this substance in building materials. If your floors are made of vinyl, or you have vinyl sheet flooring, you may need to have a health professional come out to inspect the floors to make sure they are safe for you and your coworkers. Asphalt floor tile should also be checked if you’re in an ‘antique’ building; the 1940’s were a time of considerable asbestos use, so be sure that you know the history of your building before you move your business in.

Cement pipes within or outside of your building may also contain hazardous materials. This is especially important to know, since the pipes will be transporting water to different parts of your building. The insulation of the ducts for your heating and air conditioning system may also be asbestos containing, and this is another way that employees are exposed to asbestos over long periods of time without being aware of it. The fibers of asbestos will be transmitted through the vents, and could end up lodged in the lungs, and this could cause severe breathing difficulty.

If your building has an elevator, or more than one elevator, the brake shoes may have asbestos containing materials as well. This means that not only are you exposing other employees to the harmful fibers, but guests who frequently visit your business may be at risk as well. Of course, the people that will be most affected include elevator technicians, so this needs to be checked right away if possible. If you’re having elevators installed, make sure that all materials used are safe.

It is also a good idea to check the electrical system in your building for signs that could lead to the contracting of asbestosis. Electrical wiring insulation, as well as panel partitions should be looked at closely; since asbestos is flame-retardant and resistant to heat, many electricians have used this material to keep workers safe from electrical shock.

If you’re not sure which asbestos containing material you may have in your office space, of if the building you’re in has been refurbished and you need to check to make sure that all materials are safe, you can visit www.epa.gov to find out which building and construction parts would pose a risk for you and your employees.