What’s The Difference Between Abatement & Remediation?
Abatement and remediation might sound similar but there is a difference. When it comes to removing asbestos from homes, there are two different ways to go about it, and one might work best for your building over the other.
What is Asbestos Abatement?
Abatement is essentially removing the problem from the structure or enclosing it, so there’s no longer a risk or harm to others. With abatement procedures, we’ll make sure that everyone is safe and vacated from the area before we start our work.
The asbestos contractor will come prepared with a plan and share details on how the area will be treated, including the preparation and clean-up procedures. The plan will highlight the local, state, and federal laws as well as the safety standards. Once the plan is in place and shared, the area is marked with hazard notices, and the area is vacated.
For asbestos abatement, our process is simple and closely resembles the remediation procedure.
- Seal off the area of the building
- Hang sheets of polyethylene and secure them with polyethylene tape
- Contaminated materials are removed, and placed into polyethylene disposal bags, closed securely with tape
- The remaining surface will need to be cleaned with a damp cloth and a HEPA vacuum if the situation warrants it
How Is Asbestos Removal or Remediation Different?
When it comes to asbestos removal, you’ll really just be addressing the underlying problem, so it likely doesn’t happen again. Remediation also does include an initial abatement period at first. The removal process will include a strategy and is typically created before any work begins. We’ll share a written report, with the scope of the problem, notes about the contamination area, recommendations for removal, and the materials. We’ll also share the testing methods that need to be done.
The process for asbestos removal is simple, with four steps that your asbestos removal company will follow:
- HVAC units are turned off and vents are sealed to stop asbestos fibers from circulating
- The work area is sealed off with a plastic sheeting
- HEPA vacuums and wet cleanup tools will be used to clean the workspace
- Materials removed from the site will be placed into clearly marked and leak-tight containers.
Once the asbestos is removed from your home or commercial building, we’ll follow the state and federal laws by safely disposing of the carcinogenic materials. Our team will take care of all removal and disposal procedures, keeping you and your loved ones safe.
What’s The Best Removal Method For My Building?
There’s no one way that’s better than the other to remove the asbestos fibers, it just depends on the level of exposure and the nature of the problem. Asbestos can usually be treated through abatement and is effective, however, some buildings and homeowners will choose remediation.
We don’t recommend removing these fibers yourself, it’s best to hire a professional team to remove the toxic fibers from your home or commercial building. We’ll properly test for the toxic material, follow the regulations and processes, and use the proper equipment to keep everyone safe. Learn more about asbestos abatement and remediation by contacting us today.
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