When Asbestos Testing Must be Performed

Although most uses of asbestos were banned years ago, it’s still found in many older building materials and a few newer ones in Colorado and throughout the US. There’s no danger in these as long as they’re left alone. But during renovation and demolition, the toxic fibers of those materials can be released into the air which could lead to hazardous working conditions for anyone on site. So before beginning such a project, an expert asbestos tester should be brought in first to find out where danger could lie.

The following is a list of when testing should be performed to meet federal guidelines.

1. Before Renovation

Just because a Colorado building may not be very old, testing is still required. Since asbestos is still contained in some building materials, federal law mandates that testing should always be done with no exceptions. NESHAP (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants) states that asbestos testing needs to be done before any renovations or demolition with absolutely no exceptions as to the age of the building.

2. Before Demolition

Since most renovations include at least some demolition, NESHAP rules still apply. The one exception would be if the structure is unstable and may be too dangerous for an asbestos inspector to enter. In those cases, a special exemption would be required from your state or local NESHAP agency.

3. In Older Buildings

Asbestos-containing materials like fireproofing and insulation, especially those found in older buildings, will start to crumble as they age. Even regular day-to-day maintenance work and repairs can disturb them enough to cause them to release asbestos fibers into the air.

That’s why all older buildings need to be inspected every 6 to 12 months to find out if any asbestos-containing materials have become hazardous. If you own an older building that’s not ever been inspected for asbestos, it needs to be done immediately to protect the health of those inside and protect you from possible lawsuits. It’s also a good idea to test for asbestos before buying an older building to decide whether it would be a good investment.

4. When Occupants Complain

If an employee, tenant, or any other occupant of a building expresses concern that there may be an asbestos problem, follow up immediately. Whether their concern is real or imagined, handle the complaint seriously and acknowledge their fears right away. Be sure to ask them:

• why they believe there’s an issue
• if they’re showing any symptoms
• where the suspicious material is located

You may find out that the concerned person is correct and that testing will be required. Asbestos testing will help to alleviate any worry on their part and yours. And it’s always wise to investigate the matter rather than ignore it and risk any regulatory or legal consequences.

For extensive and professional asbestos testing and inspections, contact Cyclone Kleen Up. They’re also licensed for indoor air quality testing, mold testing, and removal of any asbestos found in your building. Schedule an appointment ASAP whether your building is in Canon City, Fowler, Monument, or anywhere else in Colorado.

Cyclone Kleen Up has a trained staff that’s been certified and can perform asbestos testing & removal in Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Salida, Penrose and throughout our service area . To learn more, call 719-299-3887 or click here to schedule asbestos removal services ASAP at your Colorado home or business.