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Due to the serious health risk of disturbing asbestos materials, determining the presence of asbestos is a critical step before any renovations or removal of suspect materials. In fact, WorkSafe BC requires this step for all employers. Our experts will assess and test potential asbestos containing materials in your home or workplace, offering:
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring, fibrous mineral found in rock formations. Because its fibres are strong, durable and non-combustible, asbestos was widely used in construction and friction materials until 1978. Asbestos is still in use today to a lesser degree.
Over 3000 common building materials contain asbestos, such as:
- Insulation
- Fire proofing materials
- Drywall taping compounds
- Stucco
- Acoustical ceilings
- Vinyl flooring (tiles and linoleum)
- Adhesives
- Asbestos cement
- Pipe insulation
- Heating and air conditioning ducts
Health Risks
Asbestos poses health risks when fibres are present in the air that people breathe or when the fibres are ingested. There is no direct risk to physical contact with your hands or skin, though once loose on your skin, asbestos is likely to be inhaled or ingested as well. When inhaled or
ingested, asbestos fibres can cause several serious health problems:
- Asbestosis (a scarring of the lungs which makes breathing difficult)
- Mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity)
- Lung Cancer
Legal Obligations
Owners, managers and employers have a legal obligation under WorkSafe BC regulations to protect workers from exposure to asbestos. Health Canada in collaboration with provincial governments has adopted strict workplace regulations on exposure limits and handling of asbestos. Deviations from proper procedures may result in significant fines, as well as potential worker exposures, subsequent health problems, and potential labour relations issues.
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