3 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

to clean. Or better yet, don't get attached to the outfit and just throw it away afterward. Don't forget to cover your head as it can be a pain to get asbestos out of your hair.

WET EVERYTHING

Professional abatement contractors use a special water mixed with a chemical to keep the fibers from going airborne. Even in the absence of the chemical, water will still work. You just have to make sure that the material stays too wet to get in the air.

DISPOSAL

Properly disposing of asbestos contaminated materials is a whole other animal in itself. You CANNOT just dump it in your trash bin and call it a day. Before you start your project, call around and find a nearby hazardous waste disposal facility. Make sure that they will accept asbestos especially if they're used to receiving batteries and such only.

Some of them only operate a few days out of the month. Others are permanent sites but are still only open on weekends. Take these things into consideration when you plan your project. If your project is huge, you should also be aware that it may be illegal to drive with the waste over a certain poundage. In California, the limit is 125 lbs.

When you are disposing the items, keep in mind that your load will not consist solely of the material you removed. Anything that came in contact with the asbestos, clean up rags, clothing etc., should also be included in your load to dump. It's also a good idea to dispose of the plastic with which you sealed your work area in this manner as well.

Do not take the disposal lightly. If this part of the clean up is mishandled by contractors, they go to jail. The advantage you have over the contractors is that it is generally free for the public to dispose of hazardous waste at these facilities. Take advantage of them and finish the job properly.

And there you have it, the hidden dangers and safe removal of asbestos. Even with all these tips, the safest route is to leave asbestos containing material be. But if the asbestos is exposed, the next best route is to just hire a contractor.

Learn more about this author, Lori Crawford.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Asbestos removal and the hidden dangers?
We want to hear your view. Write now!