Asbestos Removal - a Deadly Job?
Many jobs are risky to life and limb. Because of the drama involved, sometimes they make TV shows about them. Here is a list of some of the most dangerous jobs:
- Lumberjack
- Deep Sea Fisherman
- Landmine Remover
- Steel Worker
- Miner
- Farmer
- Asbestos Remover
Asbestos remover? It can be, especially if proper safety precautions are ignored.
Why Safety Precautions Are Taken
The dangers involved when handling asbestos include contact with asbestos fibers. These almost invisible fibers float in the air and are easily inhaled and absorbed through the skin. They can cause severe health problems like mesothelioma (a kind of cancer) and lung cancer. Breathing them in can also trigger respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis.
Furthermore, long-term asbestos exposure can cause asbestosis, a long-lasting lung disease instigated by the inhalation of asbestos fibers that can produce lung tissue scarring and shortness of breath. Unfortunately, this disease may be undetected for a long time as it takes nearly 30 years for symptoms to show up.
What Safety Precautions Are Taken
Research reveals that there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. That’s why asbestos removal experts wear PPE (personal protective gear) such as face masks, full-body hazmat protective suits, respirators, shoe covers, etc. Additionally, containment barriers are erected in the areas they’re working in to keep dangerous asbestos fibers from escaping to the outside world.
Further health and safety measures for asbestos removal consist of limiting entry to the work area, employing wet methods to decrease dust and particles, using national and Colorado state-approved waste disposal procedures, and developing a written strategy for the job. And the OSHA standard establishes a classification system for asbestos construction work that spells out mandatory, simple, and technological work practices that employers must follow to reduce worker exposure.
Why Asbestos Should Only be Handled by Experts
So, is asbestos removal a dangerous job? It can be if you don’t wear the proper PPE and follow the correct removal procedures. Otherwise, the job isn’t as dangerous as any other construction job. In fact, it may be a little safer because everyone on your crew has been trained and licensed.
At Cyclone Kleen Up, our team is fully trained, licensed, equipped, and ready to remove asbestos fibers from your Colorado home or business. We follow all industry and government safety regulations and guarantee that we have all that’s needed to get the job done safely. If you live in Pueblo, Colorado Springs, or surrounding cities and looking for asbestos removal services, contact us today or just give us a call.
