• Do hire professionals: For removal, always use trained and accredited asbestos abatement professionals.
Don’ts: • Don’t disturb it: Avoid drilling, cutting, or sawing materials that might contain asbestos.
• Don’t vacuum or sweep: This can release asbestos fibers into the air.
• Don’t try to remove it yourself: Improper handling can pose serious health risks.
The Abatement Process: From Testing to Clearance
Understanding the abatement process can help you know what to expect when dealing with asbestos in your property.
Inspection and Testing: A certified professional will collect samples of suspected asbestos-containing materials and have them tested in a laboratory.
Preparation and Containment: Before removal begins, the area is sealed off to prevent asbestos fibers from spreading. Negative air pressure units are used to ensure that contaminated air does not escape the containment area.
Asbestos Removal: Asbestos-containing materials are carefully removed and placed in sealed containers.
Disposal: The asbestos waste is transported to a certified disposal facility.
Post-Abatement Clearance Testing: The area is tested again to ensure that all asbestos has been removed.
Factors Influencing Asbestos Abatement Costs Several factors can affect the cost of asbestos abatement:
Factor #1 - Scope of the Project: The size of the area needing abatement significantly impacts the cost. For example, removing asbestos from a small bathroom ceiling will be much cheaper than a whole house abatement. The larger the area, the more labor and materials are required, which drives up costs.
Factor #2 - Type of Asbestos Material: Different ACMs have different abatement costs. For instance, asbestos in mastic might be more challenging and expensive to remove than asbestos in drywalls. Each material requires specific handling techniques.
Factor #3 - Condition of Asbestos: The condition of the asbestos also matters. Friable asbestos (which can easily crumble and release fibers) is more dangerous and costly to remove than non-friable asbestos (which is more stable and less likely to release fibers).
Ensuring safety: Professionals use protective gear and follow strict protocols.
Proper disposal: Asbestos waste must be disposed of at designated facilities.
Compliance with regulations: Professionals ensure that all work complies with local and federal laws.
Dealing with asbestos in your property can be challenging, but understanding the types of asbestos, where it can be found, and the proper steps to take can help you manage the situation effectively. Always hire a professional abatement company to ensure the safety and compliance of the removal process.
—Tim Jackson is the partnership director at JJ&S environmental (
www.jjandsenvironmental.com), an abatement company that specializes in lead and asbestos removal and can be reached at
tjackson@jjandsenviro.com.
Factor #4 - Location of Asbestos: Where the asbestos is located in your home can also affect the cost. If it’s hidden behind walls or in attics, it’s going to take more time and effort to access and remove it, which will increase the overall price.
Always Hire a Professional Abatement Company
Asbestos removal is not a DIY project. It requires specialized knowledge and equipment to ensure that the asbestos is removed safely and effectively. Hiring a professional abatement company is crucial for:
Conducting Demolition or Renovation? Asbestos Testing & Certification Required
The South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1403 requires an asbestos survey report signed by a Certified Asbestos Consultant prior to any demolition or renovation. See SC AQMD Rule 1403 (d)(1)(A).
https://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/rule- book/reg-xiv/rule-1403.pdf?sfvrsn=4
www.caioc.org
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