There are very few things in New Zealand’s construction industry that have been as devastating as the use of asbestos in building materials in the past. When it was first discovered and implemented into construction in the 1930s, it’s no wonder it was touted as an innovation set to revolutionise the industry. Asbestos has some incredible properties that make it perfect for construction – not only does it increase the strength of building materials, but it also does so while decreasing its weight. In addition to this, it had remarkable insulation properties as well as being fire retardant.

On paper, asbestos seemed almost too good to be true. It had widespread adoption across New Zealand over the next decades, but as time went on, it became apparent that it was hiding a dangerous secret.

So what is Asbestosis? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is made up of small, thin fibres which can easily become airborne and inhaled. When this happens, the asbestos fibres can become lodged in the lungs and cause serious health conditions, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

By the time the serious effects of asbestos had been confirmed, it had been used widely across the country. Due to the danger of asbestos, it is important that if you are undergoing any renovation or demolition of a structure that was built in the timeframe of asbestos being used, you first have it tested and surveyed for asbestos. As the material is considered extremely hazardous, easily becoming airborne and causing irreversible harm to those in the area, it is important to assess whether the structure has asbestos in it. If it does, a professional and experienced team is required to safely remove the asbestos.

DKL has the experience and equipment to protect your project from the dangers of asbestos.

Why Asbestos Testing is Important

Asbestos is a harmful substance that can cause respiratory problems and even death when disturbed or inhaled. While asbestos use has been mostly banned in New Zealand, it can still be found in older buildings constructed before the year 2000. In order to protect both workers and residents, it’s important to conduct asbestos testing and surveying before beginning demolition or renovation projects. This will allow professionals to safely remove any asbestos found in the building and dispose of it properly. Without asbestos testing, deadly asbestos fibres could become airborne during the construction process and potentially harm those on the worksite or living in the area. Don’t take chances with your health – make sure to schedule an asbestos inspection before starting any major building project.

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Asbestos Testing

When asbestos testing and surveying are performed, samples are collected from the materials in question and sent to a laboratory for analysis. During the sampling process, asbestos professionals use specialised equipment designed to minimise disturbance and prevent asbestos fibres from becoming airborne. Other approaches such as air monitoring may also be employed to determine the level of asbestos present in the air. Once the laboratory has received the samples, they are examined under a microscope to determine the type and percentage of asbestos present. This information is crucial in determining appropriate measures for asbestos management and ensuring the safety of building occupants. In summary, asbestos testing involves sampling materials with special equipment and analysis using microscopy in a laboratory setting.

How Long Does Asbestos Testing Take?

The process of asbestos testing can vary in length depending on the size and complexity of the space being checked. A small residential home may only take a day or two for an asbestos check, while a large commercial building might require several days to thoroughly test all areas. The asbestos testing process typically involves sample collection, laboratory analysis, and report creation. It’s important to keep in mind that asbestos can take years to show health effects, so it’s crucial to have regular asbestos checks even if initial tests come back negative. Ultimately, it’s best to err on the side of caution and allow enough time for a thorough asbestos check before beginning any renovation or demolition projects.

How Much Does Asbestos Testing Cost?

When it comes to asbestos testing, many factors can affect the cost. The type and size of the property being tested, as well as the specific materials being checked for asbestos, can all play a role in determining the price. In addition, the level of urgency can impact the cost, as same-day or emergency testing may be more expensive. Depending on the situation, asbestos abatement may also be necessary, which can greatly increase the overall cost. It is important to remember that while asbestos testing may seem like an added expense, it is essential for ensuring a safe and healthy environment for workers and occupants. Ultimately, investing in asbestos testing now can save money and potential health complications in the long run.

DKL Are Auckland’s Asbestos Testing Experts

When it comes to asbestos testing and removal, trust the experts at DKL. With years of experience and all the necessary equipment, we can safely and effectively complete any asbestos-related job. Don’t wait until it’s too late – get in touch with us today for your asbestos check. Our team is ready to work with you and ensure a safe environment for your home or business. Contact us now to learn more about our services and how we can help you. Don’t put yourself at risk – get in contact with DKL for all your asbestos needs.

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Why is hazard
management
important?

Removing asbestos is of critical importance to you and your families health. The process requires meticulous planning and execution as cutting corners can easily lead to contamination both in the air and the area that surrounds it. Our specialists at DKL Projects have ample experience in removing various hazardous materials and always have you, your family and the environment’s safety in mind.

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We offer a wide range of services specializing in large scale commercial and industrial demolition as well as smaller individual projects.

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