Not properly removing asbestos can have serious consequences for both human health and the environment. Improper removal often leads to asbestos exposure. Lawsuits come hand-in-hand with asbestos exposure, making proper removal the top issue when it comes to asbestos.
Asbestos is a highly hazardous material that can cause significant health problems when its fibers are inhaled or ingested. There are many consequences of not hiring professional help for asbestos removal. Some of the most common consequences include:
Health Risks for Workers
Workers involved in the removal process are at particular risk if proper safety measures are not followed. They may inhale asbestos fibers during the removal process, leading to chronic health issues or even death. The chief concerns regarding asbestos exposure are respiratory conditions.
Respiratory Issues
Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to respiratory problems such as coughing, shortness of breath, and lung scarring. Long-term exposure can cause serious conditions like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Contamination of the Environment
Improper removal can lead to the spread of asbestos fibers into the air and surrounding environment, contaminating soil, water sources, and nearby buildings. This contamination can persist for a long time, posing risks to anyone who comes into contact with the affected areas.
Environmental contamination can potentially lead to some of the worst legal consequences. Improper asbestos fibers that spread into the environment can also spread to nearby residential areas.
Legal Consequences
Failure to properly remove asbestos can result in legal penalties and financial liabilities for property owners, contractors, and other parties involved. Laws and regulations regarding asbestos removal vary by jurisdiction, but non-compliance can result in fines, lawsuits, and damage to reputations.
Health Risks for Workers or Occupants
If asbestos-containing materials are not removed correctly from buildings, occupants may be exposed to airborne fibers over time. This exposure can lead to the development of asbestos-related diseases, even years after the initial exposure.
Increased Costs
Improper removal may necessitate additional remediation efforts in the future to address contamination or incomplete removal. This can result in increased costs for property owners and responsible parties.
Not hiring a professional to remove asbestos can lead to fibers spreading to more areas than the initial spot. Complete removal and abatement of asbestos can end up costing a lot more when improper removal has actually made the initial situation worse.
Overall, proper asbestos removal is crucial to protect both human health and the environment. It requires adherence to strict safety protocols and regulations to minimize exposure and prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.
Illinois Environmental Contractors Association Resources
It’s essential to consult with asbestos removal professionals and follow local regulations to assess the specific risks and costs associated with your situation. If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your property, the issue needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
For more information on finding a local contractor to assist with asbestos, lead and other regulated substance information, remediation, or removal, or if you have general questions regarding environmental regulations, check the resources below:
Illinois Environmental Contractors Association Members