As every housewife knows, there are some things that we simply ignore. A woman’s work is never done, they say. They’ve clearly never met the right woman. Our days our full to the brim of work, housework, child-rearing and generally being a superwoman, superwife or supermum.
The thing that seems to pass most of us by is DIY and keeping our home in absolutely pristine condition. There are some dangers in the home that many of us seem to inadvertently bypass too.
Asbestos seems to be one of those dangers that we unintentionally miss when planning any works on our home. Asbestos is a fibrous silicate material that is used in insulating materials and used in building and maintenance trades and is used primarily in ceiling tiles and insulation meaning that some of it can be present in our homes. However, it is important to know that since the year 2000, asbestos has been used less. Should your home have been built prior to the year 2000, then it is likely that the material has been used.
The Dangers of Asbestos
At the risk of sounding alarmist, asbestos can be hazardous to health. There are four major diseases caused by asbestos:
1. mesothelioma
2. lung cancer
3. asbestosis
4. diffuse pleural thickening
These are caused by inhalation of the fibres in which asbestos is found in.
It is important to ensure that should you have asbestos within the home, that it is removed safely by an expert.
Removal of Asbestos
Removing asbestos should always be done by a professional, should it be present within the home. Do not attempt to remove it yourself. The safe disposal of asbestos should only be carried out by a professional. Do bear in mind that the cost is very much dependant on where you reside within the UK and how much asbestos there is to remove. Do not let this deter you from having it removed professionally – remember that the health risks involved with asbestos can be fatal.
The following is vital if discovering asbestos in your home:
• Do not attempt to remove the affected area yourself
• Do not disturb or move the affected area. Asbestos is usually safe until it is disturbed
• Likewise, damaged asbestos can be unsafe
• Licensed contractors will be able to remove the asbestos on your behalf. Always ensure that the contractor is licensed in order to protect yourself from any possible damage
• Some samples may be taken to identify what kind of asbestos is within your home. Again, this should only be done by trained and license professional, so please do not attempt to do this yourself
• The asbestos will be separated from your daily, household waste and disposed of entirely separately
The important thing with asbestos is not to panic. While it may seem like there is an ever-present danger within your home, the most critical thing to do upon its discovery is to seek the advice of professionals so it can be removed safely. After all, a safe home is a happy home.
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