Georiga Homeowner Information - Abestos Prevention and Tips

 Georgia HomeOwner Information - Asbestos Prevention & Tips

 

 

Asbestos is a building application that was used throughout the 20^th century in many industries. Its main uses were found for insulation, piping, brake lining, roofing and flooring. In Georgia, many asbestos problems have been associated with the large petroleum industry present in the state, where asbestos made its name due to its flame resistant and versatile qualities.

 

The path to ownership is a positive and unique experience but one that results in further responsibilities. Many homes and buildings built prior to 1980 can still contain asbestos materials. Potential Georgia homebuyers or those seeking to remodel older homes should be aware that long term and frequent exposure could cause health concerns. However, this is not to say you should be incredibly frightened because with the proper precautions, asbestos exposure is easily prevented.

Although asbestos in the home is a concern, not all asbestos poses problems. It is only when asbestos becomes damaged and its fibers become airborne, where exposure can be health deteriorating. A rare form of asbestos lung cancer known as pleural mesothelioma is caused only through asbestos exposure. With no mesothelioma cure, homeowners and citizens all over the world are now receiving the proper indications and information towards the risks they face.

 

When involved in real estate, it is especially important to embark on the proper inspections to insure the safety of your clients, building workers and your reputation. A good course of action is to identify materials, which could harvest asbestos, mark the condition and establish a plan that addresses any negative condition in the building. If any suspected asbestos is located, a professional home inspector can determine the proper course of action.

 

Citizen based organizations such as the Georgia Environmental Health & Safety help promote and protect the physical and environmental health of all citizens in Georgia from asbestos. Striving to prevent exposure, they educate the public to gain understanding and compliance of state and federal laws. If asbestos removal is necessary, licensed abatement contractors who are trained in handling hazardous materials must perform it.

In addition, most people are unaware to the fact that green, environmentally sustainable products can cut energy costs and provide a healthy option to asbestos. These eco-friendly products include cotton fiber, lcynene and cellulose. Cotton fiber is made from recycled batted material and treated to be flame resistant. The United Nations Environmental Program states that usage of recycled materials such as green insulation methods and lighting can reduce energy use by 25 percent. These options will provide a safe home, free of damaging materials.

 

For more information, conctact Joe Lederman, Awareness Coordinator,Mesothelioma Cancer Center at
joe@asbestos.com

Visual aids courtesy of asbestos.com