If you are about to demolish a building, one of the key things you need to do is hire a building demolition contractor. Other than ensuring that the demolition project is done professionally, as per your schedule, a contractor will also effectively handle and dispose of all the hazardous materials they may come across. As the customer, you can help to ensure that your contractor takes all the necessary measures to keep the work environment safe by informing the contractor of any hazardous material so the contractor can ensure it is all carefully removed. For this reason, you should know the main toxic substances found in buildings, so keep reading to know more.
Asbestos fibres
Asbestos dust is generated when materials that contain asbestos are demolished. These materials can include acoustic and thermal insulation materials, asbestos cement sheets, asbestos coatings, flooring materials, and fire-resistant walls. If anyone on the site inhales the dust, they could easily suffer from health problems such as asbestosis, mesothelioma or lung cancer.
The demolition contractor must follow all the guidelines on methods of controlling dust, use of proper personal protective equipment, air monitoring, and waste disposal. The asbestos insulation or coating should also be removed before beginning the task.
Silica dust
Silica is found in bricks, natural stone and concrete aggregates. If any of these materials are crushed, ground or broken, dust that contains crystalline silica will be produced. When people are exposed to this dust for long, they can easily suffer from silicosis, a lung disease that causes breathing problems. If the dust cannot be controlled as required, everyone should wear a respirator protection equipment throughout the demolition task.
Lead pipes and paint
Lead paint can easily be found in old residential and industrial buildings. This paint chips and makes its way into other sections of the building, causing health issues. Additionally, lead can also be found in old water pipes. Lead exposure causes health problems such as reproductive problems, renal issues and neurological issues, among others.
Mercury
Mercury is often found in various equipment in a building. For instance, switches used in electric systems contain mercury. Any object that contains mercury should not be broken--it should be removed and packed in a sealed container then disposed of. Some health problems caused by mercury include digestive, immune, nervous and respiratory issues.
Once the hazardous materials are removed before demolition, your contractor should dispose them.
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