Portland’s Infill Construction Creates Asbestos Concerns for Residents

Last month, The Oregonian published an article about Portland’s infill construction boom and concerns over exposure to asbestos due to demolition activities.  The article states that builders in many circumstances can receive city permits without demonstrating that any asbestos in the older homes has been properly removed before demolition activities begin.

Many older properties contain materials that have asbestos.  Asbestos was a popular material used in a wide range of building components due to its strength, durability and insulating fire resistant properties.  According to the EPA, “Today, asbestos is most commonly found in older homes, in pipe and furnace insulation materials, asbestos shingles, millboard, textured paints and other coating materials, and floor tiles.  Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur after asbestos-containing materials are disturbed by cutting, sanding or other remodeling activities. Improper attempts to remove these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air in homes, increasing asbestos levels and endangering people living in those homes.”

Renovation and demolition activities typically create dust that can easily spread to neighboring properties.  This dust may contain asbestos and other hazardous materials such as lead.

“Infill projects can bring new life to a neighborhood, but there are potential environmental hazards associated with these types of projects,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc., one of the largest asbestos and lead testing laboratories in North America. “So many common building materials can contain asbestos in older properties.  They need to be properly removed to prevent potential exposure risks to both construction and demolition workers and nearby neighbors of these infill projects.  EMSL provides rapid asbestos testing services so that these materials can be identified and the surrounding areas monitored during demolition and renovation activities.”

To learn more about EMSL’s asbestos services, please visit www.AsbestosTestingLab.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) (856) 303-2503

Contact via E-mail