With asbestos regulations put in place, it may be easy to overlook its role as a well-known health hazard used in construction materials throughout the 20th century. However, the reality is that asbestos has not been entirely banned in the United States, leaving the potential for exposure both in the home and in the workplace that could lead to lung disease and cancer in addition to other respiratory issues.

In the home, testing for asbestos can become particularly important before renovation or after flooding; however, beyond potential dangers posed for homeowners, there is an entirely different threat to business owners that could be swept under the rug with the potential to pop up at any moment.

Quite literally, asbestos troubles could arise with exposure to damaged building materials such as pipes or insulation that might put workers at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases… and put you at risk of potential legal exposure.

Thus, understanding when and why testing is necessary could be crucial in keeping employees safe, as well as preventing you from undergoing harmful litigations.

The Why

Asbestos is a well-hidden problem, and therefore it can feel like the best approach is “out of sight, out of mind,” especially with so many other responsibilities that come with owning a business. That said, just like a home needs to be taken care of, so does commercial property where asbestos has the potential to wreak havoc once disturbed, much like a monster woken from its slumber.

Especially considering that asbestos was at its height between the 1930s and 1970s, and 639,000 commercial buildings were built in the 1960s alone, that sleeping danger could become a lawsuit if not taken seriously. Additionally, while older buildings are at risk, that doesn’t leave newer buildings in the clear, either, considering that the 1989 ban of asbestos only prevented new use of asbestos, leaving all buildings in danger regardless of the regulation.

Due to occupational safety and health standards created by the United States Department of Labor regarding asbestos, business owners are responsible for keeping employees out of danger from exposure and monitoring regulated areas properly.

Testing for asbestos regardless of property age could ensure everyone’s safety while keeping you out of legal trouble.

The When

Rather than wait to be bombarded with asbestos, it’s essential to know when exactly testing is necessary so you can avoid that hiding villain entirely and remain hazard-free, as well as lawsuit-free.

The short answer? As soon as you can!

Considering that asbestos has been so widely used due to its low price point and there’s been no hard ban on asbestos-containing materials, all buildings can be assumed to contain the dangerous mineral. Furthermore, while it only truly becomes hazardous once friable, you don’t want to wait for flooding or remodeling to realize something is hiding in your walls.

Thus, taking the time to schedule an asbestos test before your business gets up and running could save you the stress of uncontrollable circumstances later down the road and prevent employees from developing potential health effects.

The Who

Are you ready to schedule your asbestos test and limit potential legal exposure?

Luce Air Quality provides high-quality asbestos testing services to give you the peace of mind you need to keep your business up and running hazard-free.

During the survey of your building, our team will accurately identify locations where asbestos is present and provide you with a detailed report according to regional regulations and standards. Additionally, if the asbestos removal process has already been completed, we will test the property to ensure that the process has been completed successfully.

Contact us by emailing info@luceairquality.com or calling 904-803-1014 to get more information on asbestos and how you can keep your business safe. Don’t hesitate to schedule a test today!