Most people don’t become aware of the concept of designated substances until asbestos inspection in Toronto or a DSS report is required. Once known as the “miracle mineral, " asbestos is now one of eleven banned substances in Ontario because of their highly toxic effects. A designated substance survey in Toronto and throughout the province is required before beginning construction on a new project. If these substances are detected, appropriate action is required to neutralize or eliminate them, With Inch By Inch Inspections, you can plan for safe and effective asbestos abatement to carry your construction work on in a timely manner.
Where Did Asbestos Come From?
Most of the homes across Toronto were built in the decades preceding an asbestos ban (more on that later). Asbestos is a mineral found across the world. It’s made up of many tiny fibres that form bundles that can flake or crumble. Asbestos use dates back to prehistoric times, but it became popular during the late 20th century when the mineral’s fire-resistance, insulating capabilities, and affordability made it highly desirable in building materials and constructions.
What are the Risks of Asbestos?
Many industries initially prized asbestos because it is highly durable and heat resistant, but by the 1970s, people were beginning to see its dark side. Miners and other workers exposed to high amounts of asbestos dust were falling ill with chronic lung conditions like asbestosis or dying of the cancer mesothelioma at alarming rates.
Once scientists connected asbestos dust and these fatal conditions, asbestos use began to be restricted and then outright banned. Unfortunately, many things in our homes and commercial spaces may still contain asbestos particles, and our risk of exposure grows as they age. To find out if there’s a risk of asbestos exposure around your property, contact Inch By Inch Inspections for designated substance surveys and asbestos inspections in Toronto.
Why Is Asbestos a Designated Substance?
Asbestos particles are tiny and quickly become airborne when the material is chipped, cracked, broken, or sanded. These particles inflame and irritate our lungs, leading to chronic and irreversible scarring called asbestosis. Mesothelioma, a rare but fatal cancer, develops 15-40 years after asbestos exposure. Because asbestos is so small and is mainly invisible to the naked eye, detection and reduction are crucial to your health.
Marking something as a designated substance requires workplaces and other public buildings to put control programs in place to protect employees and limit their exposure. But what about your home? At Inch by Inch, a designated substance survey in Toronto can help identify asbestos or any of the other ten dangerous chemicals that may be affecting your home.
Where We Find Asbestos Indoors
You may be surprised by the list of things that may be affected by asbestos in your home — it was so popular for so long and included in the manufacture of so many items that it often pops up on environmental assessments we do. Some places we find asbestos include:
- Popcorn ceilings.
- Pipe insulation.
- Vermiculite or batt insulation.
- Vinyl and linoleum tiles.
- Window putty.
- Ceiling tiles.
- Siding and roofing.
Asbestos Inspections & Removal with Inch By Inch Inspections
If you’re planning a renovation or need repairs, we recommend having someone from Inch by Inch inspect your home before you begin. An asbestos inspection in Toronto is critical when dust, demolition or finishing techniques may create dust or debris with asbestos particles. To learn more about us, designated substances, or asbestos testing, contact Inch by Inch today!