Concerning exposure to asbestos during the installation of a fire alarm system, any suggestions?
I am a tenant in an office building built in 1978 in northern Calif. The owners want to "update" the fire alarm system. I was told that th...
I am a tenant in an office building built in 1978 in northern Calif. The owners want to "update" the fire alarm system. I was told that the fire alarm system would be extended to each unit and installed in the ceiling. Any thing to look out for or to ask about in regards to avoiding/reducing asbestos exposure during the work? Thanks.
The wise guys who give thoughtful answerers thumbs down are just awful! I never give a thumbs down unless ppl are vicious.
You’ve probably not got anything to worry about. Assuming your office(s) have a drop ceiling, they’ll simply lift out several panels to run the signal wires.
If not a drop ceiling, small holes (1/4" or smaller) will be drilled to chase the wires.
If it concerns you that much, you could wear a face mask like medical personnel use or take personal days while the work is done.
Good luck…
Asbestos Dust is the biggest problem if Asbestos is present.
Make sure the area is well ventilated, vacuumed and wear a good quality mask.
Best to vacate the area if Asbestos is confirmed until after the modifications. Get an air sample test before reoccupying the place.
not to be concern at all, unless you believe the flying fly can have you pierced like bullet. that is a example for the less challenged.
I agree that there’s not much to worry about. One of the building I work in is having a similar thing done, and the company is required to test the material for asbestos, or verify with building drawings that the material isn’t asbestos prior to drilling for OSHA and EPA regulations. Since they’re not actually certified by the EPA to work with asbestos or asbestos removal, they have to hire some one who is certified to do all of the drilling for them. Being the guy that charged them 60$ an hour for drilling holes, I agree with the dust being the biggest problem. the EPA approved methods of dust capture while cutting or drilling into asbestos are wetting or soaking the material sufficiently to prevent dust, isolating the work area from both sides with air tight enclosures and forced HEPA filter ventilation, or use of petroleum gel auto feed to the cutting surface (that one is new, but more of a pain than anything.) If you do see any dust, you can always scoop a little bit up and send it to be tested if you are concerned about mesothelioma, and wear a respirator or dust mask while the work is going on.
go to dir.ca.gov/title8/1529.html it should help answer your questions.
You have nothing to worry about. Asbestos was outlawed for use in the USA in 1973.