Step One – Assessment

If you suspect there is asbestos in your residence or building or are uncertain and would like to know how to proceed, the best first step is to contact us.  We will discuss your concern and the area(s) in question and establish a base level of risk.  Next, we would visit the site to inspect and,  if necessary, take samples from deemed risk areas.  At this point, we would be able to provide the property owner with an assessment of the site and options for safely dealing with the problem.

Step Two – Addressing Immediate Risk

Immediate risk areas are those where the asbestos is friable or where renovation work is likely to disturb the fibres.  Friable asbestos is any form of the product that will produce airborne fibres with the merest vibration, handling or impact.  Non-friable asbestos such as that in floor or ceiling tiles can pose a risk under construction, demolition or renovation conditions.  Any action leading to the fragmenting, drilling or crushing of these products has the potential of releasing some amount of fibre into the air.  These are areas that would require immediate action.

Step Three – Monitoring and Updating Risk

In many cases, mainly in commercial buildings, asbestos is present in virtually every corner and most of it presents no immediate risk.  It is very important to have an ongoing monitoring and reporting protocol.  Weather, traffic and normal wear will cause deterioration over time in any product.  Asbestos containing products are no different.