October 3, 2012

Asbestos

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How Can AMEI Help Me?

As Kansas Certified AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) Asbestos Building Inspectors, we are committed to ensuring the safety of your property. We conduct thorough inspections to identify and assess materials that may contain asbestos, also known as Asbestos-Containing Building Materials (ACBM). Our inspections involve a detailed evaluation of various building components, including insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and other materials that could potentially pose a health risk.

To accurately determine the presence of asbestos, we systematically collect representative samples from suspected materials following strict industry protocols. These samples are then sent to an accredited laboratory for professional analysis using advanced testing methods. Once results are obtained, we provide a comprehensive report outlining our findings, along with expert recommendations for next steps, whether that involves management, encapsulation, or removal.

By utilizing our certified inspection services, you can ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while safeguarding the health of occupants and workers in your building.

EPA Asbestos & School Buildings

A comprehensive, written report is then drafted which details the findings of the investigation, identifies the location, type and condition of asbestos containing building materials (ACBM), and protocols for dealing with any potential issues.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a commercial name, not a mineralogical definition. It refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies six minerals as “asbestos”:

  • Chrysotile
  • Amosite
  • Crocidolite
  • Tremolite
  • Anthophyllite
  • Actinolite

For further information, see: NIH Info on Asbestos

All forms of asbestos, including commercial varieties, are recognized as human carcinogens (cancer-causing substances). Long-term exposure can lead to serious health conditions, including lung diseases and mesothelioma.

Asbestos minerals are still mined in various countries including Canada, Russia, China, and India, but is no longer being mined in the United States.  Its beneficial aspects are high tensile strength, flexibility, resistance to chemical and thermal (fire/heat) degradation, and electrical resistance. Asbestos minerals have been used for decades in thousands of commercial products such as insulation and fireproofing materials, automotive brakes, pipe and boiler insulation, floor tile, cement and wallboard materials.

When mis-handled or damaged, asbestos can separate into microscopic-sized particles that remain in the air and are easily inhaled. Persons occupationally exposed to asbestos have developed several types of life-threatening diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Although the use of asbestos and asbestos products has dramatically decreased in recent years, they are still found in many residential and commercial settings.  While asbestos does pose potential health risks to workers and others, in some circumstances, asbestos-containing building materials (ACBM) can remain in place IF diligently maintained according to current standards.

What should I do if a structure is going to be demolished?

The first step would be to have your property thoroughly inspected  which should include the collection of bulk samples of building materials to identify if asbestos fibers are present within those materials.  Once the results are posted from the laboratory, our report will provide you with the knowledge needed to protect you and other parties involved.

In addition, the link provided below provides you with the document that must be given to KDHE.

Search “KDHE Demo Form”

Certified Asbestos Inspections You Can Trust

As Kansas Certified AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) Asbestos Building Inspectors, we prioritize the safety of your property and everyone in it. Our certified team performs detailed asbestos inspections to locate and assess materials that may contain asbestos—officially known as Asbestos-Containing Building Materials (ACBM).

What We Inspect

We examine key components of your building that commonly contain asbestos, including:

  • Insulation
  • Flooring
  • Ceiling & Wall Textures
  • Ceiling tiles
  • And several other structural materials that may present a health risk

Accurate Sampling and Laboratory Analysis

We follow strict industry protocols to collect representative samples from any materials suspected of containing asbestos. These samples are sent to accredited laboratories for precise analysis using advanced testing methods.

Clear Reporting and Actionable Recommendations

After the lab results are in, we deliver a clear, comprehensive report. This report identifies the location, type, and condition of any ACBM found. We also outline your best options—whether that means ongoing management, encapsulation, or safe removal.

Why Certified Asbestos Inspections Matter

Our services help you:

  • Comply with federal and state regulations
  • Protect the health of occupants, workers, and visitors
  • Plan safe renovations or demolitions

Understanding Asbestos

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a commercial term for a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals, prized for their durability and resistance to heat, chemicals, and electricity. These minerals include:

  • Chrysotile
  • Amosite
  • Crocidolite
  • Tremolite
  • Anthophyllite
  • Actinolite

Learn more: NIH Info on Asbestos

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

All forms of asbestos are known human carcinogens. Long-term exposure can lead to severe diseases such as:

  • Asbestosis
  • Lung cancer
  • Mesothelioma

Microscopic asbestos fibers can become airborne when materials are disturbed, posing a significant inhalation risk.

Where Is Asbestos Still Found?

Although asbestos use has declined in the U.S., it remains present in older buildings and materials, including:

  • Pipe and boiler insulation
  • Floor tiles
  • Fireproofing materials
  • Cement board and wallboard
  • Automotive brake linings

Some countries still mine and use asbestos, though it is no longer mined in the United States.


Planning a Demolition? Start Here.

Before any structure is demolished, it must be thoroughly inspected for asbestos. We will:

  1. Collect bulk samples from building materials
  2. Send them for laboratory testing
  3. Provide a full report to guide next steps

This report helps you protect all parties involved in the project and comply with Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) requirements.

Required Document: Search for “KDHE Demo Form” to download the form you must submit before demolition.

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