Deciding to build a granny flat is simple, designing and building the extension can be a lot harder. You'll have a lot of questions to answer along the way. Can you use a general contractor or is is better to use one who has built a lot of granny flats before? Is a template design better than a customised one? Should you let the person who'll live in the flat have a say in what it looks like? Luckily, I'm here to help. My name is Maria. We moved my Mum into a purpose-built granny flat last year, so I've had to answer all these questions and more. I thought it'd be useful for other people to see how we managed the process, so here we are — get reading!
Personal Protective Equipment Required During Asbestos Removal
Asbestos was used to produce insulation and other building materials for several years. This means that asbestos can be lurking in some homes, especially old houses. Asbestos is regarded as a harmful mineral and a health risk. Exposure to asbestos can be detrimental to your health; it has been linked to adverse health conditions including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Asbestos is not commonly seen in homes, but it must be removed quickly when found. Not just anyone can remove asbestos without risking exposure. It is, however, possible for you to handle asbestos removal on your own, but you need some preparations. There is specific protective equipment that must be used and worn during asbestos removal to limit health risks.
Respirator
Much of the equipment that is required for asbestos removal is not highly specialised. A respirator is a simple piece of equipment that will allow you to breathe safely when you are exposed to asbestos. It is not the asbestos itself that is dangerous to breathe in, but the fibres that are broken apart when asbestos materials are removed and disturbed. Inhaling the small fibres that become loose is what can be detrimental to your health. There are different types of respirators that you can use for various projects. However, it is important that you choose a respirator rated for asbestos removal. A toxic dust respirator is a type that is approved for use around asbestos materials.
Disposable Coveralls
Not only do you need to protect your lungs when working around asbestos materials, but it is also important to protect your entire body. A disposable suit will ensure that no asbestos fibres adhere to your clothes. It is possible to purchase this type of disposable suit from most home improvement stores. It is important that you choose a coverall that you can throw away once you are done with asbestos removal. This is the only way ensure that no tiny fibres of this hazardous material are spread from the site of asbestos removal.
Goggles
Protecting your eyes is another priority when you are preparing to deal with asbestos removal. It is essential that you use a high-quality pair of goggles that are designed not to fog when you are working. You do not want to remove the goggles at all until after you are completely done with asbestos disposal. It is essential to choose a pair of goggles that is rated for mould work. You can always seek help from asbestos removal services if you are concerned about your ability to handle the asbestos.