Introduction

• Asbestos is a naturally fireproof material that is made from fibrous crystals. For many years asbestos was used in construction and industrial projects, until it was discovered that exposure to the substance could cause lung cancer. Since this discovery, many consumers have found it necessary to remove asbestos from their households and places of work.
  
  

Legal

• Because of the dangers associated with asbestos, by law asbestos removal can only be done by yourself or a certified asbestos remover. In either case, certain precautions must be taken to insure that you do not expose yourself or others to the harmful substance.
  
  

Protection

• The first and foremost procedure when removing asbestos is wearing the proper protection. Steps must be taken to both protect yourself from inhaling asbestos particles, but also from transporting and spreading the particles. To remove the asbestos you need disposable protective clothing, disposable gloves, rubber boots (cloth can not be cleaned of asbestos), and a respirator. The respirator must be worn throughout the entire process.
  
  

Moisture

• Because asbestos consists of dry particles, proper precautions must be taken to thoroughly moisten any asbestos containing material before removal. Asbestos is most dangerous in dust form where it can gain easy access to the lungs. Any asbestos containing materials must remain saturated until they can be properly sealed in disposable packages.
  
  

Containment

• Asbestos can deposit itself into carpets or other surrounding fabrics or cloths. As such, it is important that you perform proper containment techniques to insure total removal of the asbestos. To do this, cover all surfaces with plastic. Make sure that any asbestos containing materials only land on the plastic. You may also want to construct a plastic wall in the doorways to prevent any dust particles from traveling to other areas of the house.
  
  

Disposal

• All asbestos material must be disposed of in properly labeled six mil polyethylene bags. According to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, four 33 inch by 50 inch bags should cover 100 square feet of ceiling. The asbestos bags can only be taken to approved landfills. Call your local landfill for more information on your state's disposal methods and procedures for asbestos.