Asbestos disposal refers to the process of getting rid of asbestos or other asbestos containing items in a safe way. Asbestos is natural fibrous mineral. Many corporations used it for building and insulation materials. Asbestos was also used widely in fireproofing, pipe covering, cement, refractory materials, gaskets, floor tiles and joint compounds between 1890 and 1970. Exposure to asbestos particles is the reason behind many diseases including life-threatening cancer called mesothelioma. Looking at the harmful effects of asbestos exposure, no one can underestimate the importance of safe removal and disposal of asbestos.
It is better to dispose off some asbestos containing appliances such as oven rather than trying to separate the asbestos from it for disposal because separation of asbestos may prove to be very expensive and it can be hazardous. In some cases instead of complete removal of asbestos, we can seal the exposed insulation. Sealing minimizes the further risk of formation of airborne particles. Experts believe that Inhalation of asbestos fibers is much more likely when the asbestos is fragmented and airborne. Therefore, only a specialist should handle the process of asbestos disposal.
If you are planning the asbestos disposal process, then you should read the detailed instructions called Asbestos Removal Procedures for Home Owners of Utah State Department of Environmental Quality. Following are some recommendations to make asbestos disposal safe.
1. You must wet the friable asbestos containing material and place it in properly labeled leak-tight containers before shipping.
2. Only certified asbestos personnel must handle the regulated asbestos containing material.
3. You should not carry on the process of asbestos disposal during the periods of high wind.
4. Entry of unauthorized personnel must be strictly prohibited during the asbestos disposal process.
5. Friable asbestos and Category II non- friable asbestos-containing material should be covered by the end of each operating day with at least six inches of non- asbestos containing material such as soil. Category 1 non- friable asbestos containing material may be spread prior to being covered, but shall be covered by the end of each operating day with at least six inches of compacted non-asbestos containing material such as soil
6. You must maintain the records and file them to notify future landowners or interested parties, the locations and quantities of the asbestos waste buried at the site. A notice on the deed to the property must state that the site is subject to regulation and should include precautions against any attempt to disturb that area.
About the Author
Kirsten Hawkins is a asbestos and mesothelioma specialist from Nashville, TN. Visit http://www.asbestosblog.org/ for information on asbestos reform, mesothelioma lawsuit news, and more.