At Coastal Asbestos, we’ve seen firsthand the severe consequences of mishandling asbestos during home renovations. A past incident we encountered highlights the dangers of DIY asbestos removal and serves as a crucial learning opportunity for homeowners. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from this unfortunate event.
The Disaster Unfolds
The incident began with a family excitedly preparing their home for the arrival of their newborn baby. In the midst of renovations, the father unknowingly began working with asbestos sheeting, which he unfortunately disturbed while running wires into the room. The seriousness of the situation became quickly apparent as the family started experiencing health symptoms – the mother with a sore throat and the newborn with a cough. Then, the fear of asbestos contamination became a reality, prompting an urgent call to our team at Coastal Asbestos.
Upon our arrival, the scene was alarming. The emotional distress of the family was evident, especially the mother, who was visibly upset and concerned for her baby’s health. A visual inspection of the house raised immediate concerns, confirming our suspicions about asbestos. We advised the family to vacate the house immediately for their safety, emphasising the seriousness of asbestos exposure. This marked the beginning of a challenging and costly journey for the family as they faced the reality of asbestos contamination in their home.
Key Takeaways from the Incident
1. Asbestos is Not Always Obvious
Asbestos contamination isn’t always immediately noticeable. In this case, the family didn’t realise the danger until health symptoms appeared, highlighting the importance of prior knowledge and inspection.
2. The High Cost of Mistakes
The financial burden of asbestos contamination can be immense. This family faced the heartbreaking task of discarding personal belongings, including beds, carpets, and clothes, and bore the entire cost of decontamination and restoration.
3. Long-Term Health Monitoring
The family now requires lifelong health monitoring, a stark reminder of the lasting impact of asbestos exposure. This ongoing process underscores the seriousness of asbestos-related health risks.
4. Professional Assessment is Crucial
The initial assessment by our team and subsequent testing by an occupational hygienist were critical in identifying and addressing the contamination. This emphasises the importance of involving professionals from the outset.
5. Awareness and Education Matter
Understanding where asbestos might be in your home and the risks associated with it is essential. Awareness and education can prevent such disasters.
Conclusion
This story is a sobering example of the dangers associated with DIY asbestos removal. At Coastal Asbestos, we urge homeowners to prioritise safety over cost-saving DIY methods. Before starting any renovation, especially in older homes, get a professional assessment.
If you’re planning a renovation or suspect asbestos in your home, don’t take the risk – contact Coastal Asbestos for a professional assessment and removal. Our expertise ensures the safety of your home and family. Visit our website or YouTube channel for more information and guidance on asbestos safety. Remember, it’s not just about renovations; it’s about protecting what matters most.