It appears asbestos clean-up will be necessary for many years. Asbestos was used for decades before its toxicity was discovered. The naturally-occurring substance was thought to be a miracle-product for manufacturing. Its tiny fibers are strong, flame retardant and resistant to most chemical reactions. Consequently, asbestos was used in many products including flooring, roofing, automotive parts and textiles. As a result, many workers were exposed to asbestos. It was too late for many when the dangers of asbestos were realized.
When the fibers are inhaled, they cling to the lungs and surrounding tissue. Unfortunately, there is no way to get the fibers out of the body. Those who inhale the fibers are at risk for three conditions, lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. Contractors that handle asbestos abatement have to learn how to protect themselves and others. Many take an Asbestos Training Course in Syracuse NY. Indeed, the government passed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act in 1986. The law mandates a specific training program for workers in five areas. These areas include worker, supervisor, inspector, management planner and project manager.
The asbestos training course in Syracuse NY is government-approved. One of the most important jobs is the asbestos project manager. Most project managers work with a team of professionals. They prepare the asbestos management survey which is required for buildings erected before 2000. The team looks for any presence of asbestos in the building and determines the danger. Asbestos is not dangerous unless it is disturbed or crumbling. The final survey gives the property owners an idea if there are areas where hazards exist.
The project management team oversees any removal. In fact, they prepare removal spec documents. This is a road-map for the workers. It tells them where the asbestos is and the best way to remove it. In addition, the management team supervises the contractor. Moreover, they make sure the contractor’s removal plan is the preferred method. Finally, the team re-inspects the area after asbestos removal. Unfortunately, asbestos is still found in many homes, offices and schools. Visit the site of an asbestos training program to get more information on becoming a worker.