A silent and lethal killer, asbestos has come to the forefront for being one of the most dangerous mineral fibres. We may wonder as to why this fibre has been used so widely that now its health hazards have driven more than 50 nations to ban its usage in any product. Well, human fascination with asbestos is due to its ability to resist heat. With this property and the added ability to resist electricity, the strong fibres that can be woven and used as binding agents, mankind seemed to have found its fools’ gold!

Asbestos can be grouped under two types:             

1. Serpentine – Chrysotile asbestos
2. Amphiboles – Amosite or grunerite and crocidolite asbestos and the less prominent tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite.

When did we start using asbestos in construction?

The construction industry began using this mineral after the advent of the Industrial Revolution. It was used for pipe and turbine insulation, steam engines and boilers owing to its insulation abilities.

The insulation ability that shot this mineral into the spotlight of the construction industry ensured that it was used in cement roofs in houses constructed during the 20^th century. The one thing that our construction experts did not account for was the aging of the roof with time and the potential degradation due to climatic changes and humidity. Hence, hiring asbestos cement roof removal is crucial.

How do I know that I’ve Got Asbestos on My Roof?

You are now aware of the two different types of asbestos, Serpentine and Amphiboles. An essential piece of information lies in the fact that amphiboles are comparatively more lethal than serpentine, with fatality rates being higher as well. Usually, Asbestos on your roofing sheets would be accompanied by black mould and loose and rusty screws and fittings.

Here is a list of what you can do once you’ve discovered the infestation:

• Call a licensed professional
• Do it yourself (not recommended because the main problem with a DIY for asbestos cement roof removal is that you run the risk of contracting significant health risks that are of the terminal nature and violating rules of the law).

Precautions for the Removal of Asbestos from Cement Roofs

One opinion may have only a signatures’ difference from the other when it comes to expert views on asbestos cement roof removal from any surface. They all strongly suggest you undertake the following measures if you wish to remove asbestos from your cement roofs:

1. Close the doors and windows and seal the house. This included sealing the gap beneath the door.
2. Warn others that you shall be undertaking asbestos cement roof removal activities that day, so that they may avoid the possible airborne debris.
3. Always wear the right personal protective equipment (PPE)
   • Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) – Protects from inhaling airborne asbestos fibres.
   • Disposable overalls – Prevent you from carrying asbestos particles out of the worksite.
   • Footwear- You can wear disposable footwear covers.

Steps in removal of asbestos from cement roofs

Step 1: Ensure that the asbestos is wet. Refrain from using a power house or any other device that would render the asbestos fibres airborne. You can use a wetting agent.

Step 2: Trying your best not to disturb the Asbestos, use croppers to cut the cement tiles from the inside.

Step 3: Remove the sheets without breaking them.

Step 4: Wrap the sheets in 500-1000-gauge polythene. Seal the cover with tape.

Step 5: For asbestos cement roof removal, place your disposable hand gloves and overalls in separate plastic bags and seal them with tape.

Do not forget to label them as asbestos waste for safe disposal.

It is necessary to always proceed with extreme caution when it comes to dealing with any type of asbestos infliction.