Asbestos in Commercial Buildings: What Business Owners Should Be Aware Of
Asbestos, once a widely-used construction material, poses serious health risks when disturbed. While it was banned in many countries, it can still be found in many older commercial buildings. For business owners, understanding the potential hazards of asbestos in their properties is crucial—not only for the safety of employees and customers but also for legal compliance and avoiding costly fines.
Why Asbestos Was Used in Commercial Buildings
Asbestos became popular in construction due to its fire-resistant, insulating, and durable properties. It was commonly used in:
Insulation for pipes and boilers
Ceiling and floor tiles
Roofing materials
Siding and cement sheets
Spray-on fireproofing
Many commercial buildings, particularly those built before the 1980s, may still have asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). While asbestos is harmless if undisturbed, renovations, damage, or regular wear and tear can release dangerous fibers into the air.
Health Risks Associated with Asbestos
Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause severe health problems, including:
Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and other organs.
Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease that causes scarring of lung tissue.
Lung Cancer: Increased risk, especially for smokers, from long-term asbestos exposure.
Because the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases can take decades to appear, it’s critical to prevent exposure as soon as possible.
Signs Your Commercial Building May Contain Asbestos
If your building was constructed before the 1980s, it’s likely asbestos was used. Key warning signs that asbestos may be present include:
Old or damaged insulation: Particularly around boilers, pipes, or ductwork.
Crumbling floor or ceiling tiles: Vinyl tiles from the mid-20th century often contain asbestos.
Spray-on fireproofing materials: Found in ceilings or walls, especially in industrial buildings.
Weathered roofing materials: Asbestos was common in shingles and roofing sheets.
If you suspect asbestos is present, do not disturb the materials—contact a professional.
The Legal Responsibilities of Business Owners
Business owners have a legal responsibility to ensure their property is safe for employees and customers. In many countries, laws require owners to manage asbestos risks in commercial buildings. This includes:
Asbestos Surveys: Regular inspections by certified professionals to identify the presence of asbestos.
Asbestos Management Plans: Creating a plan to monitor asbestos-containing materials, prevent exposure, and arrange for removal if necessary.
Training: For staff, especially those involved in maintenance, to handle asbestos safely or recognize areas where asbestos may be present.
Failure to comply with asbestos regulations can result in significant penalties and lawsuits, as well as endanger the health of everyone in the building.
When Should You Consider Asbestos Removal?
While undisturbed asbestos isn’t immediately harmful, business owners should consider removal if:
Renovations or repairs are planned, and asbestos may be disturbed.
The asbestos-containing material is damaged or deteriorating.
There is a risk of accidental exposure during daily operations.
Asbestos removal should always be performed by a licensed professional who follows strict safety guidelines to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos materials.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Asbestos in Your Building
Hire a certified asbestos inspector to assess your building. They will test for asbestos and provide a detailed report on any materials that contain it.
Create an asbestos management plan if asbestos is present. This plan should outline how you will monitor the materials and when removal may be necessary.
Train your maintenance staff to recognize asbestos and handle it safely, or work with licensed contractors who specialize in asbestos management.
Plan for asbestos removal if any construction or renovation work is planned. This should be done well in advance to ensure that your building is safe for future use.
Conclusion: Asbestos Safety Is a Must for Commercial Buildings
As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to protect your employees and customers from potential asbestos exposure. Regular inspections, compliance with asbestos regulations, and professional asbestos removal when necessary are critical steps in maintaining a safe environment. By taking the proper precautions, you can safeguard both your business and the health of those who work and visit there.
