Sunday, August 6, 2017

Discovery of Asbestos can Halt Progress on Renovations of Buildings

Renovations at the Sydney Opera House were halted following the discovery of asbestos.
Renovations at the world-famous Sydney Opera House recently ground to a halt following the discovery of asbestos. In the midst of $200 million renovations, workers pulled off the site of the iconic building, known for its architecture, due to safety concerns. Like many buildings constructed during the 20th century, the complex of the Sydney Opera House contains asbestos, a potentially toxic building material that can cause forms of cancer, respiratory ailments and other health problems. Asbestos can put the health of workers in danger if they inhale or ingest microscopic asbestos fibers. Asbestos in buildings across South Florida can endanger the health of residents and workers. Before undergoing remodeling projects or renovations, older buildings in places like Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and West Palm Beach should get tested for asbestos. Companies that provide asbestos abatement fort lauderdale services can help property owners and general contractors ensure a safe working environment for workers on site.

Before demolishing or renovating buildings in places like Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Doral, Aventura, Hialeah, Miami Springs, Coral Gables or other locations across the city, builders and contractors may want to hire asbestos testing companies to determine if the structures contain asbestos. Licensed asbestos removal miami businesses will typically follow protocols to safely and responsibly eliminate the asbestos. Professional and state-licensed asbestos abatement generally will abide by industry protocols to avoid cross-contamination and to safely dispose of the asbestos.

Following the discovery of asbestos, employers have the responsibility to take steps to protect the health and safety of workers, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA may require employers to provide personal exposure monitoring and to train workers in hazard awareness. Employers should also provide workers with personal protective equipment and protective clothing to minimize workers’ exposure to asbestos, as there is no safe level of asbestos exposure.