During renovations, an asbestos removal contractor works to remove the hazardous construction material asbestos from a building. Aside from a high school diploma, you don’t need any formal education to work as an asbestos removal contractor. Before you can work in the hazardous materials removal field, you’ll need on-the-job training and certification. Because asbestos is frequently discovered during renovations, having a construction background is advantageous when working as an asbestos removal contractor.
Asbestos was once a common building material, and asbestos ceiling tiles were made from it. Asbestos popcorn ceilings were also made with it. Because of its high heat resistance, the material was frequently used in construction because of its insulating and energy-saving properties. Governments eventually discovered that the material was hazardous to human health.
Depending on where you live, you must have a certain number of hours of formal on-the-job training to become an asbestos removal contractor. Most governments have specific training requirements for anyone wishing to work as an asbestos removal contractor. In many cases, the employer is held liable for any training deficiencies.
Because of the nature of the material, asbestos workers require special training. Asbestos is made up of thousands of tiny fibers. The material deteriorates over time, and renovation activities can release asbestos fibers into the air, which workers inhale.
Asbestos has been linked to breathing problems and lung tumors, posing numerous risks to remediation workers. Even a small amount of it can be harmful. Those who are exposed to asbestos while unprotected can develop asbestosis, a condition in which tiny asbestos fibers cause lung damage.
To ensure the health of building occupants, old asbestos tiles must be removed and properly disposed of as homes and businesses are renovated. Workers who work with asbestos are trained to remove asbestos safely, reducing worker exposure to asbestos fibers.
Workers who remove asbestos must complete training programs that meet specific safety standards established local health and safety boards. Employer-sponsored training is typically conducted in-house rather than at a formal school. Health hazards, protective gear and clothing, site safety, how to recognize and identify hazards, and decontamination methods will all be covered during the training.
Because it is common to come across other hazardous materials while removing asbestos, asbestos workers must be able to identify them. Some asbestos removal companies obtain licenses to handle a variety of hazardous materials, allowing them to continue working after discovering new asbestos.