What Is Asbestos and What are the Dangers of Asbestos in Older Homes?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, fibrous crystals. It was extensively used in construction materials from the early 20th century until the late 20th century when its health risks became widely recognized. Asbestos can be found in various building materials, including:

• Insulation (pipe, attic, and wall insulation)
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Roofing shingles and siding
• Popcorn ceilings and textured paints
• Cement sheets and ducts

Why Was Asbestos Used in Construction?

The popularity of asbestos in the construction industry was largely due to its unique properties:

• Fire Resistance: Asbestos is non-combustible and was often used in fireproofing materials.
• Insulation: It provided excellent thermal and sound insulation, making it ideal for walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Durability: Asbestos-reinforced materials were resistant to wear, chemicals, and heat, making them long-lasting.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Because it was inexpensive and widely available, it became a staple in home construction.

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure & Dangers of Asbestos in Older Homes

The dangers of asbestos arise when the material is disturbed, releasing microscopic fibers into the air. When inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in the lungs, leading to severe health conditions, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by long-term asbestos exposure, leading to scarring of lung tissue and difficulty breathing.
• Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure is a known risk factor for lung cancer, especially in individuals who also smoke.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen, almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.
• Other Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure can cause inflammation and respiratory distress, making it dangerous even in small amounts over time.

How to Identify and Address Dangers of Asbestos in Older Homes

If your home was built before the 1980s, there is a significant chance it contains asbestos in some form. Identifying and safely managing asbestos involves the following steps:

1. Inspection and Testing: Hire a certified asbestos professional to conduct an inspection and take samples for testing. Avoid disturbing suspected materials yourself, as this can release harmful fibers.
2. Assessing Risk: If asbestos-containing materials are intact and undisturbed, they may not pose an immediate danger. However, if they are damaged or deteriorating, professional removal may be necessary.
3. Asbestos Removal and Abatement: If asbestos poses a risk, professional abatement services should be employed to remove or encapsulate the material safely. Never attempt DIY asbestos removal, as improper handling can significantly increase exposure risks.
4. Renovation Precautions: If you plan to renovate an older home, always conduct an asbestos assessment first to avoid accidental exposure.

Asbestos remains a hidden danger in many older homes, making awareness and proper management essential. If you suspect asbestos in your home, taking proactive steps to assess and address it can protect your health and that of your family. Hiring professionals for inspections and removal ensures a safe and compliant process, minimizing exposure risks. By understanding the dangers of asbestos, homeowners can make informed decisions to create a safer living environment.

Get in touch with us at SWIPE if you want to learn more about testing, assessments, and removal of asbestos from your home.

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The Risks of a DIY Asbestos Removal Job

The most immediate risk associated with a DIY asbestos removal job is to your health. Asbestos is a dangerous natural mineral that releases tiny fibres into the air when disturbed. These fibres are highly toxic and can cause a range of health complications for people and animals. The most common diseases associated with asbestos are lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. All of these illnesses primarily affect the lungs, causing life-threatening effects. Most asbestos-related diseases have no cure and thus could be with you for life. Failing to hire the help of an expert puts you at increased risk of developing one of these illnesses. 

If health risks aren’t enough to scare you away from a DIY job, then consider all of the equipment that you will need to get the job done right. Asbestos removal calls for a little more than some gloves and a dust mask. Most asbestos abatement experts wear particle respirators with P3 filters, airline respirators or other self-contained breathing equipment. They also wear overalls designed for asbestos exposure and disposable shoe coverings. These kinds of personal protective equipment aren’t readily available. As a result, the average homeowner struggles to get the job done safely.

What’s more, is that asbestos removal needs to be disposed of properly. Unlike other household waste, asbestos-containing materials need to be thrown away very meticulously. If they are not wrapped and bagged properly they can cause contamination. This can make hiring an expert far more convenient than doing it yourself. Moreover, certain waste management facilities will not accept asbestos-containing materials. And, in most cases, if they do, you have to let them know in advance of dropping off your waste. This can be incredibly tedious for a homeowner who is trying to complete a renovation. 

How to Choose the Best Chilliwack Asbestos Removal Company?

Now that we’ve convinced you to hire an expert, here’s some advice on how to select the best contractor for your asbestos removal job. 

Certification and Licensing: Ensure that the company is certified and licensed to perform asbestos removal in your area. Certification demonstrates that the company has met specific training and safety standards. You can find information about a company’s qualifications by searching their name in the provincial business registry. 

Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record in asbestos removal. Experienced companies are more likely to handle the job efficiently. At SWIPE Contracting, we have over 15 years of experience handling asbestos-related jobs. 

Reviews: Check references and online reviews to gauge the company’s reputation. Positive feedback from previous clients is a good indicator of reliable service. You can also verify this via word of mouth. Ask around your local community to see how people’s experience with the company was. 

Insurance: Verify that the company has adequate insurance coverage, including liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This protects homeowners in case of accidents or damage during the removal process. The last thing you want is to be on the hook for someone else’s mistakes!

Quotes: Obtain detailed written quotes from multiple companies. The estimates should outline the scope of work, including containment, removal, cleanup, and disposal. Be sure to get quotes from at least three companies before making your choice. 

Safety Protocols: Inquire about the company’s safety protocols and procedures. A reputable company should be transparent about the measures they take to protect their workers and clients. This is especially important when dealing with toxic materials like asbestos. 

Contact us Today!

For more information about Chilliwack asbestos removal, contact us today! If you are not sure what services you require for your next project, reach out to one of our experienced team members. We’d be happy to give you a quote on your project and determine what services you’ll need. At SWIPE we have several years of experience dealing with demolition, excavation and asbestos/mould remediation. If you have any questions regarding our services, feel free to reach out. We look forward to working with you in the near future. 

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Furthermore, you can view the full post by clicking on the title of each article.

Winter and Spring Blog Recap.

Jan – Chilliwack Excavation Company & Flood Damage

Flooding impacted British Columbians from all over the province in early 2022. Subsequently, the damage that occurred due to the floods in the fall of 2021 continued to burden residents of affected areas. Check out this article to learn about how we restore water-damaged properties. 

Feb – Chilliwack Mould Removal Services!

In order to successfully eradicate mould after flooding, it is best to bring in a professional. Having an expert remove the mould will ensure that health and safety risks are minimized. Learn more about Chilliwack mould removal services and why you need an expert, here!

Mar – Reasons You Have Household Mould.

Mould is a common threat to many households across the globe. If you discover mould in your home, finding the root cause is essential. Mould can grow in a number of different conditions. However, it is most favourable to moisture. Learn about the most common ways mould growth occurs in a household setting, here!

Apr – What Does an Okanagan Excavation Company Do?

Have you ever wondered what kind of jobs an Okanagan excavation company partakes in? If yes, we have put together an article explaining our purpose as an excavation company. Many people assume that excavation is simply a matter of digging holes in the ground. However, excavation companies do much more than just carve out holes.

May – Checking for Mould in a New Home: Mould Removal in the Okanagan

If you are looking to purchase a new home, it is important that you are on the lookout for mould. Mould growth is a common issue that can cause all sorts of problems. Additionally, at SWIPE, we specialize in mould removal in the Okanagan. Learn more about what signs to look for when viewing a new home, here. 

Summer & Fall Blog Recap from your Okanagan Demolition Company!

June – Sorting Used Materials With a Demolition Contractor in Kelowna

After a structure has been demolished, there will be a large volume of debris that needs to be dealt with. However, all of the debris cannot be grouped together and disposed of. This is because all construction materials need to be discarded differently. In this article, we took a look at how a demolition contractor in Kelowna separates debris.

July – Protecting Workers From Asbestos in Kamloops

When working with asbestos in Kamloops it is crucial that all workers are protected. Asbestos poses major health risks to the human body. For more information on how to protect employees from asbestos in the workplace, read this blog post.

Aug – Preventing Okanagan Mould Removal in a Heat Wave.

During a heat wave, it is important that homeowners take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their homes from needing Okanagan mould removal. If you are interested in learning more about mould prevention during a heat wave, check out this article. 

Sept – Kamloops Mould Removal – Household Tips.

In this article, we went over some commonly neglected household places mould likes to grow. We will also cover what to do if you find mould. Take a read-through, if you haven’t already!

Oct – Common Myths About Demolition in Kamloops

Like every industry, demolition certainly has its misconceptions. Demolition often gets painted as reckless and unsafe. However, the reality is that demolition is actually completely safe and has an important place within society. 

Nov – Staying Neighbourly During Demolition in the Okanagan.

If you make the decision to have demolition in the Okanagan, it is your job to ensure that your neighbours are well-prepared. In this article, we went over how to remain neighbourly during a demolition project. 

Contact Your Okanagan Demolition Company Today!

We want to thank all of our clients for another successful year in removing asbestos and mould from houses and workplaces. In addition to, safely demolishing and excavating structures. Be sure to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about your Okanagan demolition company. We’d be happy to help you solve your biggest asbestos, mould, excavation, and demolition problems. Moreover, check back with us in the new year for more helpful blog content. We look forward to working with you in 2023. Happy holidays!

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What Are the Basics of Working With Asbestos in Kamloops?

In order to best protect workers from asbestos exposure, they must first be trained in a variety of areas. For instance, anyone who is going to be working with asbestos must understand all of the risks associated with handling asbestos-containing materials (ACM). Moreover, workers need to know how to identify ACM in the workplace. In addition to this, they must understand what personal hygiene is necessary in order to protect themselves from exposure. As well as, what protective gear should be worn and how to take care of it after it has been used. Lastly, workers should be aware of the proper disposal procedures for ACM and take health monitoring for asbestos-related health issues seriously. 

Depending on what province/territory you are located in, these regulations will differ. For exact requirements on protective equipment and disposal procedures, check with your local jurisdiction. In some locations, a training certificate is required to work with ACM. 

Avoid Inhaling Asbestos & Have Regular Monitoring Done!

When working with asbestos it is important to avoid inhalation of any ACM. Workers need to wear the correct gear in order to protect themselves. If workers do not have the correct equipment, employers should establish a program to ensure all employees have access to proper protective equipment. Respirators are a mandatory requirement when working with asbestos. They need to be provided for all employees who may come into contact with ACM. Respirators need to fit the worker properly and be in good working order. They must also be cleaned and disinfected regularly to ensure safe use. 

Furthermore, protective clothing must also be worn and should prevent the penetration of any ACM. Moreover, the clothing needs to cover all body parts and fit tightly around any areas where ACM could get under the garment. All personal protective equipment needs to be stored in a clean and sanitary location when it is not being used.  

Good Practices to Follow When Working With Asbestos?

When working with asbestos it is important to develop certain practices to keep employees safe. One of the most important rules of working in an environment with asbestos is to always wear proper personal protective equipment! Without this, serious medical conditions can be developed. Additionally, it is vital that workers do not eat, smoke, drink, chew gum, or use cosmetic products in an asbestos-regulated area. 

ACM must be kept wet to ensure dust is kept at bay. Any dust that is prevalent needs to be vacuumed with the addition of a HEPA filter. After work, employees must properly dispose of their protective clothing. If the clothing is not single-use, it needs to be decontaminated using a HEPA filter. Failure to do so can end up harming those in your household – including pets. If you have the option, showering at work can help significantly reduce outsider exposure to ACM. Workers with immune-compromised family members or housemates should proceed with added caution. 

Asbestos must be properly disposed of in order to prevent exposure in other settings. Waste and dust should be placed into a container that cannot be penetrated by the asbestos fibres. In addition, containers must be labeled to notify others that there is ACM inside and it should not be inhaled. 

Contact Us About Removing Asbestos in Kamloops.

Proper protocol must be followed by those working with asbestos in Kamloops. In order to prevent health complications and workplace hazards, it is crucial that employees are properly equipped and trained. For help with removing asbestos in Kamloops, contact us today. We’d be happy to help you during the demolition process. If you have any questions regarding asbestos, feel free to reach out. We look forward to working with you in the near future. 

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Follow along below to read a quick summary of each article we wrote in 2021! You can view the full post by clicking on the title of the article.

June 2021 – Why Receive Asbestos Testing Kelowna For Your Home?

In June we kicked off our Swipe Contracting blog with a post about why you should receive asbestos testing. There is a long list of problems that can occur if your home has asbestos. We suggest that homeowners get a test if they are looking to renovate a significant part of their home. Those exposed to asbestos can incur serious long-term illnesses. You can find out more, by reading the post “Why Receive Asbestos Testing Kelowna For Your Home”.

July 2021 – Swipe Contracting Asbestos Abatement Kelowna will protect your health.

This article has plenty of information on the health effects of asbestos. Short-term and long-term contact with asbestos is risky. Short-term exposure to asbestos will not likely present any visible symptoms. Long-term exposure to asbestos can cause worrisome diseases including mesothelioma and other cancers. Exposure to asbestos can cause respiratory diseases and asbestosis. People are not the only living beings that can contract a disease from asbestos exposure. Pets are able to develop mesothelioma similar to human beings. For more information please check out “Asbestos Abatement Kelowna will protect your health”.

August 2021 –  Asbestos Service Kelowna Views the History of Asbestos.

Asbestos has a long history in Canada. Canada was a major force in the asbestos industry. In 1850, the first asbestos discovery was made in Quebec. As the industry took off more and more workers began falling ill with horrible diseases. McGill researched this and found a link between working with asbestos and becoming severely ill. What researchers did with the data next was shocking! They were paid off for 6 years to keep the discovery under wraps! For a full history of asbestos in Canada, check out the article “ Asbestos Service Kelowna Views the History of Asbestos”.

September 2021 – Household mold removal in Kelowna!

Mould is a very common substance that we can find in almost every instance of our lives. Not all mould is good and harmless. Which, is why it is important to remove any harmful moulds hiding in your home. If you suspect mould in your home it is important to have a professional take care of it. In this article, we went through the most common household molds that could be cozying up in your house this season. Check out the post “Household mold removal in Kelowna” for more information.

October 2021 – Okanagan Asbestos Services Appalled.

In October, we wanted to spread the alarming news about Canada’s asbestos policy. In 2018, Canada was rumoured to put a ban into effect on all asbestos-containing products. Unfortunately, there was an exemption to this ban that has put several people in harm’s way. For more information on this important news visit the post “Okanagan Asbestos Services Appalled”.

November 2021 – Why Hire an Okanagan Demolition Contractor like Swipe Contracting?

There are plenty of reasons to hire a demolition contractor. Doing it yourself isn’t an option for many people and the risk of unprofessional demolition is extensive. Safety is a number one priority and with an expert company like SWIPE, safety will always be put first. To learn more about why you should hire a demolition contractor, view “Why Hire an Okanagan Demolition Contractor”.

Swipe Contracting is Looking forward to 2022!

We want to thank all of our clients for a successful year in removing asbestos and mould from houses and workplaces.

Be sure to contact us at Swipe Contracting with any questions or concerns you may have about asbestos, mould, or demolition. We’d be happy to help you out with any of these problems. Check back with us in the new year for more helpful content. We look forward to a great 2022!

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What if I’m Exposed? 

Exposure to asbestos is unsafe in all cases. However, disease will only arise after regular long-term subjection. The risks of inhaling or ingesting asbestos are severe. Cancer (commonly of the lung), scarring of the lungs, Mesothelioma, Asbestosis, and other diseases are all factors of prolonged exposure. If you experience a large volume, short-term exposure, you may be more likely to contract a disease later in life. It is best to take maximum precaution if you think there is asbestos present in your home. Contact a professional abatement specialist and have the dangerous materials removed.

Are all asbestos materials hazardous?

Not all asbestos products in your home will be hazardous or harmful. So long as the materials are not deteriorating or disturbed, they are safe to live with. It is only when fibres become airborne that they cause disease. Checking to see if materials have water damage or tears is a good way to spot potential danger zones. Do not touch the area, as you may unintentionally release some of the fibres. 

What products should receive asbestos testing Kelowna?

There are a multitude of household products that contain asbestos. Commonly, it is found in insulation for walls, pipes, and furnaces. It can also be present in flooring materials like vinyl or tile. As well as, the adhesive to keep materials in place. Electrical casings, older paints, fireproof fabrics, FRP decking, and thousands of other materials can contain this dangerous fibre. There is no way to be certain an object has asbestos in it without udergoing a lab test. 

Asbestos Testing Kelowna & Removal Procedure

It’s difficult to know if you have asbestos in your home without having it professionally tested. Asbestos is not visible to the eye and is often mixed with various other materials. Homes built before 1990 contain some products with this dangerous particle. So, it is likely owners of homes before this year will find some asbestos. Identifying asbestos carrying materials is essential in a safe home and work site. The procedure for testing is as follows: The licensed contractor will walk around to several areas in your home and safely collect samples of materials that could contain this mineral. They will then have each sample tested in a lab to determine the presence of asbestos. Your contractor will then provide you with the results of the lab and where the hazards lie in your home. From there you can come up with a removal plan if necessary. 

Leave it to a professional to remove asbestos. Ensure that the contractor you hire has proper credentials and insurance. They will then remove the asbestos materials, make sure dust is minimal, get rid of waste, and clean thoroughly.  

Safely removing and receiving asbestos testing Kelowna is a great precaution to take if you live in an older home. It will help preserve the safety and health of anyone who visits your home. For more info on how to receive an inspection contact us at SWIPE Contracting today! We’d be happy to help you make your home asbestos free. Feel free to reach out with any questions and click here for more info on the health risks of asbestos!

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Swipe Contracting Performs Asbestos Removal Services in Kelowna

Swipe Contracting Ltd. should be your first phone call if you suspect that there is asbestos in your Kelowna home. Our team has the skills to safely identify and remove asbestos, so that it doesn’t pose any future health risks. Significant health issues arise when asbestos is disturbed. So much so that most governments have banned the use of asbestos in any product. In fact, the WHO indicates on its website that asbestos is responsible for causing lung cancer.  

“In 2004, asbestos-related lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis from occupational exposures resulted in 107,000 deaths and 1,523,000 Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). ”

https://www.who.int/ipcs/assessment/public_health/asbestos/en/

If you suspect that asbestos is present in your home or office then give us a call for further inspection. This is especially important if you are considering a renovation or demolition in the near future. Once asbestos has been disturbed it becomes more difficult to safely contain. Calling on an expert asbestos abatement company is highly recommend in order to reduce your personal exposure.

We look forward to hearing from you! If you’re in the process of planning a renovation

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