Many people today are aware that asbestos removal in Toronto is necessary to prevent the harmful health effects of the mineral. Unfortunately, when it comes to asbestos awareness, that's as far as coverage goes. Many property owners are unaware of when they need asbestos air testing and how exposure will affect them. To learn more about asbestos removal in your Toronto property, contact Inch By Inch Inspections. We're committed to providing you with comprehensive information about the mineral, so you're able to make informed decisions and schedule asbestos removal in Toronto when appropriate. The first step is knowing how people get sick from asbestos — to know more, read on.
How Does Asbestos Exposure Happen?
If products containing asbestos, like drywall or insulation, become disturbed through renovations or maintenance, tiny asbestos fibres are released into the air. Once airborne, these fibres can easily be inhaled and trapped in your lungs. The best way to avoid asbestos exposure altogether is to contact a professional for asbestos detection services, especially before starting any repairs or renovations. With asbestos air testing from Inch By Inch Inspections, our certified technicians will ensure that any asbestos in your property is detected and thoroughly removed.
Asbestos-Induced Illness
Once exposed to asbestos, you may be at risk of developing mesothelioma, asbestosis, or persistent lung and respiratory problems. Once the fibres are in your lungs, they will gather and cause scarring and inflammation, ultimately affecting your respiratory system. Asbestos-related illnesses are the third largest cause of death in the workplace, and mesothelioma has resulted in 500 deaths in Canada since 2010. While asbestos-induced illnesses may take many years to develop, keep an eye out for symptoms like wheezing, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, or anemia. If you notice that these symptoms persist, visit a medical professional as soon as possible.
Who is Most Likely to Get Sick From Asbestos?
Although Canada federally banned asbestos in 2018, many building materials still have traces of asbestos, putting construction workers and contractors at risk of being sick from asbestos exposure. Aside from construction workers, those who work in plumbing, manufacturing, and insulation are also at high risk of exposure and developing asbestos-related illnesses.
What to Expect from Asbestos Testing?
When there is a suspicion of asbestos around your home, trained technicians will conduct a physical inspection of potential asbestos-containing materials. During the asbestos inspections, small samples will be collected, minimizing disturbance to the scene. These samples are then tested for certified lab testing. Analysis will give insight into the risk level of asbestos based on the concentration of fibres in your materials and the category of asbestos it belongs to.
The Main Types of Asbestos
There are different types of asbestos; while they can all get you sick, a few have more severe symptoms than others.
- Blue asbestos, formally known as crocidolite asbestos, isn't very common but is considered the most dangerous form of the mineral. It's responsible for more illnesses than any other type.
- Amosite asbestos commonly referred to as brown asbestos, is the second most common type used and is often used in insulation, fire protection, and plumbing insulation, and is equally as dangerous as blue asbestos.
- While chrysotile, or white asbestos, is what you'll likely find in your residential property, it isn't as severe as amosite or crocidolite. However, unfortunately, it still puts you at risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses.
When to Test for Asbestos
It's best to get asbestos sample testing and asbestos air testing before you commence any major home renovations or repairs. For anything that will disrupt drywall, insulation, or plumbing, it's a good idea to get asbestos sample testing and air testing and inspections. Asbestos detection services are the best way to prevent asbestos exposure.
Contact the professionals at Inch By Inch Inspections for detection and asbestos removal in Toronto.