Understanding Asbestos: What It Is, Risks, and Why Inspections Are Essential

Asbestos was once a commonly used material in building construction due to its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. However, over time, the dangers of asbestos exposure became clear, leading to widespread regulations and bans. While the use of asbestos has been heavily restricted, many older buildings still contain asbestos materials. In this blog, we'll explore what asbestos is, the health risks it poses, and why asbestos inspections are essential, especially in cities like New York City, NY.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of fine fibers. It was widely used in construction materials from the early 20th century until the 1980s. Common uses included:

• Insulation: In walls, attics, and around pipes.
• Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives.
• Roofing: Shingles and cement roofing.
• Ceiling Tiles: Used in acoustic ceilings.
• Sprayed Coatings: Fireproofing and soundproofing materials.

Despite its many benefits in construction, the microscopic fibers of asbestos can become airborne when disturbed, leading to serious health hazards.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

When materials containing asbestos are damaged or disturbed, asbestos fibers are released into the air. These fibers are dangerous when inhaled and can lodge in the lungs, causing a range of health problems. Some of the most serious asbestos-related diseases include:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition caused by scarring of lung tissue.
• Mesothelioma: A rare but aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen.
• Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer.

These diseases may take years, even decades, to develop after exposure, which is why it's important to manage the risk of asbestos, particularly in older buildings.

Why Asbestos Inspections Are Essential

If you live in or own a property built before the 1980s, there’s a high chance that asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may be present. Whether you’re a homeowner, building manager, or contractor, it’s crucial to conduct regular asbestos inspections, particularly before renovations, demolitions, or repairs. Here’s why:

• Identify Hidden Asbestos Hazards: Asbestos is often found in areas of buildings that aren't easily visible, such as behind walls, in attics, or around plumbing. Professional asbestos inspections help identify hidden ACMs, ensuring that they don't go unnoticed during construction projects. This is especially critical in a bustling city like New York City, where older buildings are abundant.
• Ensure Legal Compliance: In New York City, regulations surrounding asbestos are strict. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) requires an asbestos investigation and ACP5 certification before any construction or demolition project can proceed. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in delays, fines, or even legal issues.
• Protect Workers and Occupants: Construction workers, contractors, and building occupants are at risk of exposure if asbestos is not properly managed. Asbestos inspections minimize this risk by identifying areas that require remediation or abatement. This ensures that any work conducted on the building is safe and compliant with local regulations.
• Prevent Expensive Cleanup Costs: Handling asbestos improperly can lead to contamination, not only in the immediate work area but throughout the building. This can lead to costly cleanup efforts and potential health risks for anyone who frequents the property. Early detection through a thorough asbestos inspection can prevent these issues from escalating.

What to Expect During an Asbestos Inspection

At A Plus Asbestos Investigation Inc., we provide professional asbestos inspections for properties throughout New York City, NY. Here’s what you can expect when you schedule an inspection with our team:

• Initial Assessment: A visual inspection of the property to identify areas where asbestos is likely present.
• Sampling: If asbestos is suspected, we’ll take samples of materials for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of asbestos fibers.
• Reporting: We’ll provide you with a detailed report of our findings, including any asbestos present, and recommend steps for abatement if necessary.
• Compliance: Our inspections comply with New York City’s asbestos regulations, ensuring that your project can move forward without legal obstacles.

When Should You Schedule an Asbestos Inspection?

There are several instances when scheduling an asbestos inspection is essential. These include:

• Before any Renovation or Demolition: If you plan on renovating an older building or demolishing a structure, an asbestos inspection is required by law in New York City.
• Purchasing an Older Home: If you're buying an older property, it's a good idea to have it inspected for asbestos to avoid future health risks or renovation complications.
• After Natural Disasters: Storms, floods, and fires can disturb asbestos materials, so it’s essential to have your building inspected afterward.

How to Manage Asbestos in Your Building

If asbestos is found in your building, don’t panic. There are several options for safely managing asbestos, including:

• Encapsulation: Sealing the asbestos-containing material to prevent fibers from becoming airborne.
• Enclosure: Covering the ACM with another material to prevent exposure.
• Removal: In some cases, asbestos removal is necessary. This should always be performed by licensed professionals to ensure safety.

At A Plus Asbestos Investigation Inc., we work with certified abatement specialists who can help manage or remove asbestos in accordance with local regulations.

Protect Your Property with Professional Asbestos Inspections

Asbestos inspections are an essential part of maintaining safety and compliance in older buildings, especially in a historic city like New York City, NY. By scheduling an asbestos inspection, you protect not only the occupants of your property but also the workers involved in construction projects.

Don’t take chances with asbestos. Contact A Plus Asbestos Investigation Inc. today at (718) 227-7244 to schedule an asbestos inspection for your property in New York City. Let us help you ensure that your building is safe, compliant, and ready for future projects.