What Is Asbestos Cladding?
Asbestos cladding is an exterior covering or cladding for buildings with asbestos-containing materials. Typically involving sheets or panels made from asbestos cement, asbestos cladding provides weatherproofing, however, it poses significant health risks when disturbed or deteriorating, releasing airborne asbestos fibres that can lead to serious respiratory diseases if inhaled. Due to these health concerns, asbestos cladding removal and replacement with safer materials have become a priority in building maintenance and renovation projects.
The Dangers of Asbestos Cladding
Asbestos cladding poses significant health risks that should not be overlooked. Once airborne, asbestos fibers can be easily inhaled and can lead to serious lung diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer. These diseases are often fatal and can manifest many years after exposure to asbestos fibres. The World Health Organization estimates that around 107,000 people die each year from asbestos-related diseases globally.
The removal of asbestos cladding is a delicate and dangerous task that requires professional handling. Due to the high level of risk involved, it is strictly regulated by health and safety laws in many countries. Improper asbestos cladding removal can lead to contamination of the surrounding environment and prolonged exposure for individuals in the vicinity. Furthermore, it is essential to dispose of the material appropriately after removal to prevent potential exposure. It is strongly recommended that any work involving asbestos cladding, including its removal, should only be undertaken by trained and certified asbestos removal professionals to ensure safety for all involved.
