Steps to Safely Manage Asbestos in Older Buildings

In old buildings, asbestos was a go-to material for construction until its health risks became widely known. When asbestos fibres are disturbed, they can cause serious health problems like lung disease or cancer.

That’s why managing asbestos safely is so important. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about protecting lives—yours, your family’s or your workers’. So, how do you handle this tricky material without putting anyone at risk? Learn about the steps to manage asbestos safely.

The first step to tackling asbestos is knowing where it’s hiding. Unfortunately, asbestos isn’t limited to one area of a building. It could be lurking in:

• Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles, linoleum backing and adhesives.

• Ceiling materials: Popcorn ceilings or textured paint.

• Insulation: Used in attics, around pipes and boiler rooms.

• Roofing and siding: Cement shingles and roof panels.

• Walls: Plaster, joint compound or insulation boards.

Buildings constructed before the 1980s are the primary culprits. However, just because a building is old doesn’t automatically mean it contains asbestos and newer buildings aren’t always safe either—some ACMs remained in use into the early 2000s in certain regions.

Visual inspection alone isn’t enough. To confirm its presence, hire a certified asbestos inspector. These professionals take samples of suspected materials and send them to a laboratory for testing. Disturbing ACMs during this process without proper precautions can cause fibres to spread, so leave this step to the experts.

Once asbestos is identified, the next step is to evaluate its condition. Not all ACMs pose an immediate threat. For instance:

• Intact ACMs: If the material is in good condition and undisturbed, it may not release fibres. Such materials can often be left alone with minimal risk.

• Damaged ACMs: Frayed insulation, cracked tiles or crumbling wall panels are far riskier. Damage increases the likelihood of fibre release, especially in areas with frequent activity.

To assess asbestos properly, an understanding of its behaviour and risks is critical. Those who might be exposed to ACMs must take an asbestos awareness course to stay safe. These courses teach you to recognise ACMs and implement measures to stay safe.

High humidity, vibration or physical wear can accelerate the degradation of ACMs. For example, asbestos insulation in a damp basement is more likely to deteriorate than insulation in a dry attic. This assessment helps determine the urgency of action and guides the selection of appropriate control measures.

Once you’ve identified asbestos and assessed its condition, it’s time to decide what to do about it. There are several strategies for safely managing ACMs:

• Encapsulation: This involves coating the material with a sealant to prevent fibres from escaping. It’s a quick and effective fix for undamaged materials.

• Enclosure: Here, a barrier is placed around the ACMs to keep them contained. Think of it like putting a lid on the problem.

• Repair: Small damages can often be patched up. This method works well for localised issues, like a single crack in an otherwise intact pipe covering.

• Removal: Sometimes, the only safe option is to get rid of asbestos entirely. This is especially true for heavily damaged materials or if future renovations might disturb them.

Caution:

When in doubt, leave it to professional asbestos removal teams who have the gear, training and experience to handle this delicate task safely. Workers dealing with asbestos need proper protective gear. This includes respirators, disposable suits and gloves. PPE training is essential to ensure everyone knows how to use this equipment effectively. Even seemingly simple tasks, like wearing a mask correctly, can make a huge difference in safety.

Asbestos management doesn’t end after taking initial steps. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure that ACMs remain in a stable condition. Here’s what ongoing management involves:

Scheduled Inspections

Inspect ACMs at least annually or more often in high-risk areas. Look for signs of wear, like cracks, moisture damage or exposure. A licensed asbestos inspector should perform these checks.

Proper Documentation

Keep a detailed log of all ACMs, their locations and their conditions. Include dates of inspections, actions taken and the names of professionals involved. This record helps ensure continuity if ownership or management of the building changes.

Preventive Maintenance

Even well-managed asbestos can become hazardous if neglected. For instance, encapsulated materials might need re-sealing over time or enclosures might require repairs. Address minor issues promptly to avoid more significant problems.

Awareness Training for Occupants

If a building is occupied, ensure everyone knows where ACMs are located and why disturbing them is dangerous. Simple instructions—like not drilling into particular walls or avoiding specific areas—can go a long way in preventing accidents.

Safely managing asbestos in older buildings is a step-by-step process that requires care, attention and professional expertise. Here’s a quick recap:

• Identify ACMs: Hire professionals to confirm asbestos presence.

• Assess Condition: Determine if materials are intact, damaged or deteriorating.

• Implement Controls: Use strategies like encapsulation, enclosure, repair or removal based on the material’s condition and location.

• Prioritise PPE and Training: Equip workers with the right tools and knowledge to stay safe.

• Monitor Regularly: Keep inspecting and maintaining ACMs to ensure long-term safety.

Cutting corners isn’t an option when dealing with asbestos. The risks are too high. Always consult licensed professionals and follow local regulations. By taking these steps, you can protect lives and keep your building safe for generations to come.