Some materials are too dangerous for you to work on. Only a licensed asbestos contractor must carry out these jobs – this is known as licensed asbestos work.
Asbestos-containing licensed products refer to construction materials and products that contain asbestos and are subject to specific licensing requirements for their removal and handling due to their higher asbestos content and greater potential for health risks. These materials require licensed asbestos removal professionals to manage and safely dispose of them. Here’s a description of asbestos-containing licensed products:
- Composition: Asbestos-containing licensed products typically have a higher asbestos content compared to non-licensed materials. They are made by mixing asbestos fibers with various binders and materials to create durable and fire-resistant products. Examples include asbestos cement products, insulation board, and certain thermal insulation materials.
- Applications: These licensed products were used in various construction applications, including roofing, siding, insulation, fireproofing, and more. They were favoured for their fire resistance, thermal insulation, and durability, making them common in commercial, industrial, and residential buildings.
- Health Risks: Licensed asbestos products pose significant health risks when disturbed or damaged. The higher asbestos content in these materials increases the potential for asbestos fiber release into the air. Inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers can lead to severe health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
- Regulation: Licensed asbestos-containing products are subject to stringent regulations that require specific licensing for their removal and disposal. Licensed asbestos removal professionals are trained to manage these materials safely and adhere to strict safety protocols.
- Handling and Removal: The removal of asbestos-containing licensed products should only be performed by licensed asbestos removal contractors who have the necessary training and expertise. Strict safety measures, including containment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and thorough decontamination procedures, must be followed to minimize asbestos exposure during removal.
- Replacement: When asbestos-containing licensed products are encountered during renovations or demolition, they are safely removed and replaced with asbestos-free alternatives to ensure the safety of building occupants and workers. Modern, asbestos-free materials are used for roofing, siding, insulation, and other construction needs.
In summary, asbestos-containing licensed products were once commonly used in construction due to their fire resistance and durability. However, they pose serious health risks when disturbed or damaged, as asbestos fibers can become airborne. Proper identification, handling, and removal of these materials require adherence to strict safety guidelines and regulations, and it necessitates the expertise of licensed asbestos removal contractors to ensure the safety of those involved in construction or renovation projects.
DO NOT TOUCH
Any work on these products needs a licensed asbestos contractor.
Non-Licensed
These materials often contain a lower asbestos content and are considered lower risk compared to licensed asbestos materials.