Understanding Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) in Calgary Homes and Buildings

Read more: The Silent Threat: A Closer Look at Asbestos Exposure and its Health Effects

Types of ACMs and Potential Locations in Calgary Homes and Buildings:

1. Building Materials:

• Sprayed fireproofing: Often applied to structural steel beams, columns, and ceilings for fire protection. It can be found beneath paint, plaster, or suspended ceiling tiles.
• Insulation: Used in wall and attic cavities, around boilers and pipes, and as loose fill insulation.
• Textured wall and ceiling coatings: These decorative coatings, popular in the 1960s and 70s, may contain asbestos fibers.
• Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives: Older vinyl floor tiles, sheet flooring, and the adhesives used to install them might contain asbestos.
• Roofing materials: Asbestos fibers were sometimes incorporated into roofing felts, shingles, and coatings used in flat roofs.
• Drywall Joint Compound: Asbestos was often mixed into the mud during manufacturing or prior to application.

2. Other Potential Locations:

• Gaskets and packing materials: Used around boilers, furnaces, ducts, and valves.
• Cement pipes and shingles: Used in older plumbing systems and roofing applications.
• Millboard: Used for heat shields, electrical panels, and appliance components.
• Clutch pads and brake linings: Often found in older vehicles stored in garages or workshops, but still a risk in some newer applications. These are one of the few materials that were still allowed to be manufactured and sold until recent years.

Important Note: This list is not exhaustive, and ACMs can be present in various unexpected locations. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified asbestos professional for a thorough inspection to identify any potential ACMs in your property.

Why is it Important to Identify and Address ACMs?

Asbestos fibers are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye. When disturbed through activities like renovation, demolition, or simply wear and tear, these fibers can become airborne and pose a significant health risk. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to severe health problems, including:

• Lung cancer: The most common asbestos-related cancer.
• Mesothelioma: A rare but very aggressive cancer that forms in the thin lining of the lungs, abdomen, and rarely other internal organs.
• Asbestosis: A chronic and progressive lung disease that causes scarring of lung tissue and shortness of breath.

What to Do if You Suspect ACMs in Your Calgary Home or Building:

If you suspect the presence of ACMs in your property, it’s crucial to not disturb the material yourself. Attempting to remove or handle ACMs without proper training and equipment can significantly increase the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. Here’s what you should do:

1. Contact ASK Environmental, qualified asbestos professionals : We can conduct a thorough inspection to identify any ACMs present and recommend the appropriate course of action.
2. Do not disturb the ACMs: Leave them in their undisturbed state until a professional can assess and address them safely.
3. Seek professional advice: If you have concerns about potential asbestos exposure, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

ASK Environmental: Your Partner in Safe Asbestos Removal in Calgary:

For professional asbestos removal services in Calgary, contact ASK Environmental at 1.888.613.3025. Our certified and experienced technicians can handle all aspects of asbestos abatement, ensuring the safe and efficient removal of ACMs from your property. We prioritize the health and safety of occupants while adhering to strict regulations and industry best practices.

Remember, early identification and proper management of ACMs are crucial for protecting yourself, your family, and others from the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure. By taking the necessary precautions and seeking professional help when needed, you can ensure a safe and healthy environment in your Calgary home or building.