623-734-5536

Hablamos Espanol

Archive for February, 2015


What You Need to Know About Asbestos

In 1989, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned all new uses of asbestos; however, uses developed before 1989 are still allowed.

What does that mean to you? Traditional uses of asbestos, from flooring, roofing, surfacing materials and insulation are still legal and in use in the United States today. 2.3 million pounds of asbestos was imported legally into the United States, from Brazil alone, in 2012.

According to the EPA, this is a sample of what asbestos can still be used in:

  • Cement corrugated sheet
  • Cement flat sheet
  • Clothing
  • Pipeline wrap
  • Roofing felt
  • Vinyl floor tile
  • Cement shingle
  • Millboard
  • Cement pipe
  • Automatic transmission components
  • Clutch facings
  • Friction materials
  • Disk brake pads
  • Drum brake linings
  • Brake blocks
  • Gaskets
  • Non-roofing coatings
  • Roof coatings

Why is asbestos bad?

Asbestos fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can remain airborne indefinitely. The major routes of exposure are inhalation and ingestion. Exposure to asbestos can cause fatal diseases. Asbestosis, Mesothelioma, and Lung Cancer are all caused by asbestos fibers entering the body, with symptoms taking an average of 30-45 years to appear, and no known cure.

Improper removal, handling and disposal of asbestos containing materials can contaminate a large area, leading to the exposure of many people. Occupations associated with significantly higher mesothelioma deaths include plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters; mechanical engineers; electricians; and elementary school teachers.

What are the other risks?

Failure to follow local, State and Federal regulations regarding asbestos can lead to hefty fines and imprisonment. In addition, courts can impose additional penalties for willful violations, and obligate the offending party to pay all associated cleanup costs, medical expenses and restitution. This also opens up the possibility of lawsuits from affected individuals or businesses, including Class Action lawsuits.

here can I find out what laws and regulations to follow?

Here is a list, with links, to some of the regulating agencies involved with asbestos:

Need help understanding it all? Call us at 623-734-5536 for a No Obligation Consultation.

Remodeling and New Construction | Rowland Heights, CA

Rowland Heights, Hacienda Heights, Diamond Bar, Fullerton, Puente Hills and La Habra

ABOUT US

Life is busy enough without the pressing issues of property damage from a storm or a fire. AZ Environmental Contracting has been serving homeowners and business owners alike with a full range of property restoration and contracting services.

LEARN MORE

OUR SERVICES

  • 24/7 Emergency Services
  • Restoration & Contracting
  • Remediation Services
  • Insurance Work

REQUEST INFORMATION




captcha

Would you like to learn more or request a quote?

LEAD AWARENESS

AFFILIATIONS

TESTIMONIALS

...Bryan eased those concerns, explained thoroughly where they were with their progress, and most importantly, completed the work like he said he would. I would highly recommend Bryan and his team to anyone looking to hire them in the future.”

~ Joe K.