Asbestos

Sand County Environmental, Inc. offers fast and reliable asbestos inspections. We can assist you in discovering and documenting the presence or absence of asbestos containing building materials, whether you are a commercial entity or concerned homeowner. Our goal is to inform property owners, prospective buyers, and renters about the presence and risks of asbestos.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is an umbrella term used to describe six different naturally occurring minerals that are carcinogenic to humans. When the minerals are broken down, they yield extremely strong fibers. These fibers can be inhaled, ingested, or lodged into the skin causing detrimental effects. In the past, asbestos was added to a variety of products (i.e., flooring, ceiling tile, pipe insulation, drywall, plaster, shingles, siding, window glazing, caulks, etc.) to create a more durable building material, and to provide insulation and fire resistance. Many of these building materials are still present where they were initially installed.

As a property owner and/or renter, what is my responsibility regarding asbestos?

Due to the import of building materials from other countries, such as China, India, and Mexico, any building may contain asbestos.

The Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation 29 CFR 1910.1101 requires building owners to determine the presence of asbestos if tenants or employees will be exposed. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations require building owners to determine the presence and extent of asbestos prior to completing renovations or demolitions. This is where we come in as certified professional asbestos inspectors.

The state of Wisconsin requires demolition projects dealing with any amount of asbestos to adhere to Chapter NR 477 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. All waste containing asbestos is subject to special storage, transport, and disposal requirements under Wisconsin state law. In most cases, a certified professional must be used to remove asbestos materials, known as “asbestos abatement.”

What is the risk of asbestos?

Exposure to asbestos can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, or other diseases, primarily through inhalation of asbestos fibers. The risk of exposure to asbestos mainly occurs during building renovation or demolition. Precaution and professional testing should be used when disturbing or removing materials that may include asbestos.