While most people are unfamiliar with asbestos and its history, many know that it’s a dangerous material. Asbestos almost has a “boogieman” mythic quality. Many contractors and businesses used it for decades before the severe health concern side-effects became well-known. At Grimebusters, we’ve heard many misconceptions regarding the removal of asbestos. As asbestos removal experts, we want to dispel some myths surrounding it and its removal. Below are a few common myths about asbestos and the truth behind them. Continue reading to learn more about asbestos and asbestos removal.

Myth: Asbestos Isn’t Used Anymore

In Canada, in the 1990s, the federal government banned the use of asbestos-containing materials. Many people may not realize that buildings built before the ban often still contain asbestos. The only way to ensure your home or business is asbestos-free is to have a professional like Grimebusters perform specialized asbestos tests. That way, you can guarantee that your family and employees are not breathing in hazardous asbestos fibres. The following areas in your home or business are most likely to contain asbestos or asbestos-containing materials:

• Ceiling Tiles or Stipple (Popcorn Ceilings)
• Vinyl Floor Tiles or Roll Flooring
• Drywall Joint Compounds
• HVAC Duct Tapes
• Adhesives, Mortar, Grout, and more.

So while asbestos and asbestos-containing materials are no longer available in Canada, your home or business may use these dangerous materials without your awareness. Fortunately, Grimebusters in Edmonton can help you safely dispose of the asbestos in your building. Our team of professionals understands the many health risks associated with asbestos and works diligently to ensure you, your family, and your employees will be safe.

Myth: A Mask Provides Enough Protection

While your average hardware store-grade mask will provide some protection, that protection is not enough against asbestos. Professional asbestos removers like Grimebusters utilize many layers of personal protective equipment (PPE), like a full body suit and specialty breathing masks. That way, every inch of our workers’ bodies is protected from asbestos. This high level of PPE and specialty training is required to be protected from the dangers of asbestos.

Myth: You Should Immediately Remove Asbestos

This is critical to understand, as disturbing asbestos can create a severe health risk. When asbestos is disturbed, the dangerous fibres are released into the air and are free to cause significant health concerns. If the asbestos in your home or business is contained and in good condition, the risk of fibres becoming airborne is reduced. Asbestos removal is dangerous and cannot be done as a DIY job. If you discover asbestos in your Edmonton home or business or have concerns that it may be in your building, Grimebusters is here to help!

Myth: Asbestos Removal Can Be Your Next DIY Project

Asbestos removal falls under federal and provincial regulations and should never be done by a DIYer. Asbestos can become airborne and easily be inhaled or ingested if removed improperly. Asbestos exposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other severe diseases and illnesses. Trained professionals like those at Grimebusters in Edmonton understand the many health and safety risks associated with asbestos removal. Our team of expert removers takes the utmost care to uphold health and safety regulation compliance and ensure that your home or business is clear and safe. At Grimebusters, we use the best containment, removal, and decontamination methods, along with high-quality equipment. We even include third-party consultation, air testing, and reporting as a part of your abatement project. That way, we can ensure that legislation has been carefully followed and limit your liability.

If you’ve discovered asbestos in your home or workplace, or have concerns about asbestos, contact Grimebusters to learn more about our asbestos removal services.