Building Materials that everyone needs to be careful with.

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Always be safe when handling dangerous materials. Give us a Call to Remove them for you! 518-677-3444

SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties are trained in determining and properly reporting any hazardous building materials. The very first process of an initial inspection is to see what kind of building materials are affected and what potential hazards could be associated with the restoration process. Dangerous building materials include, Asbestos, Lead, Mercury, and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs).

Asbestos

Asbestos is a natural occurring fibrous mineral composed of thin, needle-like fibers. Asbestos is not banned in the united states and is resistant to heat, electricity and corrosion. High exposure to asbestos can lead to cancer and other health diseases including mesothelioma. Prior to 1986 asbestos was used in roofing materials, coatings, compounds, and plastics. You can also find asbestos in drywall, and floor tiles. Therefore, if SERVPRO were to receive a lead for a water loss in a home, the first thing we need to find out is what the year of the house is. The asbestos hazard emergency response act of 1986 highly regulates the mineral. For a home that was built prior to the 1980’s, regulation requires testing to be preformed and depending on the results of the test, will determine to actions that needs to happen in order to properly remove the hazardous material. In New York State, you must be certified in asbestos abatement to properly remove the hazardous materials. SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties does NOT perform abatement, we seek out environmental companies that are in areas that we work. Environmental companies typically will perform the test and then handle the abatement if needed.

Lead

Lead is a heavy metal that was used in paints. Lead is not banned in the United States but was phased out in the 19^th Century. Health risks associated with Lead is poisoning to the brain, kidneys and over exposure could lead to death. In 1970, lead paints were banned in the United States. At SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties is trained and certified in lead testing, and abatement. Lead testing can be done in a lab by a licensed environmental company that uses x-ray equipment to detect lead in homes. This test can be very expensive and sometimes not worth the money because over the counter lead kits are usually performed and is said to have great outcomes. Depending on the results and affected materials, remediation of lead can be performed by SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/South Washington Counties.

If you or anyone you know may be hazardous materials lurking in your home or business and would like to get a quote of removing such materials- Give Us A Call Today! 518-677-3444