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Diamond Certified Category Report

Contra Costa County – Asbestos Removal

Environmental Remedies, Inc.

(877) 312-3471
CONTACT 1999 Alpine Way
Hayward CA 94545

LICENSE 840442, 854, S-23125, NAT-75042-2

DIAMOND CERTIFIED COMPANY REPORT

Environmental Remedies, Inc. (ERI) is an asbestos and lead abatement contractor that serves residential and commercial clients throughout Northern California. The company has completed thousands of projects for a diverse clientele list that includes homeowners, contractors, insurance providers and government… Read more

Key Services

Asbestos Removal Lead Removal

AREAS SERVED

Serving Northern California

P.W. Stephens Environmental, Inc.

(877) 564-4392
CONTACT

LICENSE 922790, 966

DIAMOND CERTIFIED COMPANY REPORT

P .W. Stephens Environmental, Inc. is an abatement contractor that provides hazardous material management for residential, commercial and industrial customers throughout California (its Fremont location coordinates Bay Area work). The company’s main services include asbestos abatement, lead paint removal and… Read more

Key Services

Asbestos Abatement Lead Paint Abatement Mold Remediation

AREAS SERVED

Serving California

Diamond Certified Companies are Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise.

  • Why this rating is the most accurate.
  • Our editors gather deep company info.
  • Performance is Guaranteed.

Diamond certified companies are top rated and guaranteed

Why Trust Diamond Certified Asbestos Removal Companies Rated Highest in Quality?

Photo: P.W. Stephens Environmental, Inc. (2013)

RICHMOND—You are the customer. If your goal is to choose an asbestos removal company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified asbestos abatement contractor. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated asbestos removal contractor and

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose an asbestos removal company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified asbestos abatement contractor. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated asbestos removal contractor and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS IN THE Contra Costa County – Asbestos Removal CATEGORY

Rob Meyers is project manager at Environmental Remedies, Inc., a Diamond Certified company since 2008. He can be reached at (877) 312-3471 or by email.

Rob Meyers

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Rob Meyers: Breaking the Mold

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Program Reporter

PLEASANTON — After working on both the residential and commercial sides of the construction business, Rob Meyers thought he’d seen and done everything, but when he got an opportunity to learn about construction restoration, it opened the door to a whole new world. “I started working in construction 25 years ago as a framer and eventually got into finish carpentry work,” he recounts. “In 2008, I met a contractor who offered to train me in construction restoration. Upon taking my first class, I was hooked. In particular, I found the science behind mold and asbestos abatement really interesting. I earned my industry certifications and continued to work forward from there.”

Today, as a project manager for Environmental Remedies, Inc., Rob says his favorite part of his job is the detective work that goes into solving mold issues. “Asbestos and lead are both pretty cut-and-dry, but mold is a lot more complicated. In addition to removing it, you have to determine the factors that caused it to develop in the first place so it doesn’t come back again. I enjoy the process of tracking down the source of mold problems and coming up with effective solutions.”

Born and raised in New Hampshire, Rob came to the Bay Area in 1990 and today resides in Menlo Park. Outside of work, some of his favorite pastimes include fishing and following professional sports. “I’m a big Boston fan since I grew up in New England, so any time my teams are in town, I go see them play,” he says. “My other passion is fishing. I have a speedboat, and whenever I have a free weekend, I’m usually out fishing with my buddies or my sons, Jake and Josh.”

Concerning his abatement career, Rob espouses the importance of professional integrity. “In this business, it’s easy for dishonest contractors to exploit customers’ fears, which is why integrity is first and foremost with us,” he explains. “Providing effective, long-term solutions is a must when it comes to mold issues. After all, if I charged you $2,000 to clean up a mold infestation and it returned two weeks later, it’d be hard to justify my role as your abatement contractor.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Rob says he’d withdraw to a slower pace of life. “I grew up on a farm, and after spending the last 25 years in the city, I miss the peacefulness of the country. I would actually love to buy a house in a rural area just outside the city, which would allow me to have the best of both worlds.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Music or talk radio?
A: Talk radio during the workday, music in the evening.

Q: What was your first car?
A: An early ’80s Ford Escort. It had a bad interior exhaust leak, so for two years I drove around with a headache not realizing I was slowly killing myself.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Sit at home and watch old Elvis movies. My dad was a huge Elvis fan, and I actually got to see him in concert when I was eight years old, a couple years before he died.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: It’s a tie between pistachios and beef jerky.

Q: Who makes you laugh?
A: I grew up listening to Bill Cosby and later got into guys like Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, and, more recently, Mitch Hedberg and Brian Regan. I actually did stand-up comedy for about 13 years in the San Jose and Oakland areas, and I even tried out for Last Comic Standing a few times.

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Common Misconceptions about Mold and Asbestos

by Rob Meyers, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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PLEASANTON — When hazardous substances are found in the home, it’s important to deal with them in a safe, proactive manner. However, whether it’s mold or asbestos, people often have an uninformed or misguided perspective on what this entails. Here… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Misconceptions about Mold & Asbestos

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Complete Video Transcription:

PLEASANTON — Host, Sarah Rutan: When it comes to dealing with mold and asbestos, many homeowners have false impressions about what’s safe and what isn’t. Today we’re in… Read more

SELECTED PHOTOS FROM THESE TOP RATED COMPANIES

  • An ERI technician installs an exhaust duct for HEPA air filtration.

  • ERI’s technicians remove asbestos ducting in the crawlspace of a residential property.

  • A recent acoustic spray removal project upon completion of abatement

  • The firm serves residential, commercial and industrial customers.

  • A recent lead paint stabilization project at the City of Berkeley’s Mental Health Department

  • A recent lead-based paint stabilization project at Oakland’s historic 16th Street Station

  • ERI’s crew installs a containment at a CVS in Concord.

  • The firm takes every precaution to protect clients and their homes.

  • Plastic barriers prevent the spread of harmful contaminants.

  • An ERI crew member scrapes delaminating lead-based paint from wood siding.

  • Containment for an acoustic spray removal project on a residential property

  • In addition, it cleans and deodorizes HVAC duct systems.

  • This mini-containment in the bedroom of a residential property allowed the occupants to remain at home during the project.

  • An ERI technician sections a piece of wallboard.

  • An ERI crew member removes sealed asbestos bags from containment.

  • P.W. Stephens Environmental provides removal and remediation of hazardous materials.

  • A recent lead paint stabilization project on a residential property in Oakland

  • An ERI technician scrapes asbestos that contains acoustic spray.

  • On-the-job safety is always a priority for P.W. Stephens Environmental.

  • An ERI crew member uses a HEPA vacuum-equipped saw to section wallboard.

  • A P.W. Stephens Environmental technician removes asbestos from a client’s ceiling.

  • A recent residential remediation project by Environmental Remedies

  • An ERI technician puts the finishing touches on a popcorn ceiling scrape containment.

  • It uses a patented method to dry, disinfect and decontaminate homes and buildings.

  • A recent lead-based paint removal project in Oakland

  • ERI installed this containment in the hallways of Highland Hospital in Oakland.

  • P.W. Stephens also handles mold remediation.

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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

INDUSTRY INFORMATION - Contra Costa County – Asbestos Removal
Common Locations for Asbestos Removal

manufacturing facility asbestos removal
health care facility asbestos removal
school asbestos abatement
mechanical room asbestos encapsulation
boiler room asbestos abatement
commercial asbestos removal
residential asbestos removal / home asbestos removal
apartment asbestos abatement
public building asbestos removal

Types of Asbestos Testing & Removal Services Available in Contra Costa County

asbestos disposal
garage asbestos removal
popcorn ceiling asbestos removal
asbestos shingle removal
asbestos roof removal
asbestos insulation removal
asbestos dust removal
asbestos encapsulation
asbestos surveys
asbestos testing
asbestos inspections
asbestos shingle abatement
asbestos cement removal
safe asbestos removal
asbestos abatement
asbestos tile removal
asbestos siding removal
asbestos floor removal
asbestos ceiling removal
asbestos floor tile removal
asbestos linoleum removal

Cities Served

Alamo
Antioch
Bay Point
Bethel Island
Blackhawk
Brentwood
Briones
Byron
Canyon
Clayton
Clyde
Concord
Cowell
Crockett
Danville
Diablo
Discovery Bay
El Cerrito
El Sobrante
Hercules
Hilltop Mall
Kensington
Knightsen
Lafayette
Los Medanos
Maltby
Martinez
Moraga
North Richmond
Oakley
Orinda
Pacheco
Pinole
Pittsburg
Pleasant Hill
Point Richmond
Port Chicago
Port Costa
Rheem Valley
Richmond
Rodeo
San Pablo
San Ramon
Tara Hills
Vine Hill
Walnut Creek
Walnut Heights
West Pittsburg

Zip Codes Served

94506
94507
94509
94511
94513
94514
94516
94517
94518
94519
94520
94521
94522
94523
94524
94525
94526
94527
94528
94530
94531
94547
94548
94549
94553
94556
94561
94563
94564
94565
94569
94570
94572
94575
94582
94583
94595
94596
94597
94598
94801
94802
94803
94804
94805
94806
94807
94808
94820
94850

Associations for Asbestos Removal Services

American Indoor Air Quality Council (AIAQC) (www.iaqcouncil.org)
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) (www.aiha.org)
Association of Specialists in Cleaning and Restoration (ASCR) (www.ascr.org)
California Indoor Air Quality Program (CIAQA) (www.cal-iaq.org)

Contractors State License Bureau (CSLB) (www.cslb.ca.gov)
California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) (www.dca.ca.gov)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (www.epa.gov)
Environmental Risk Resources Association (ERRA) (www.erraonline.org)
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) (www.iaqa.org)
Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) (www.iicrc.org)
North Coast Builders Exchange (NCBE) (www.ncbeonline.com)

Know What You Want
Deciding What You Want from Asbestos Removal Companies in Contra Costa County

After you have done some initial research, talk with a few local asbestos removal companies. Have a written list of questions and write down each contractor’s answers.

Many asbestos removal companies will not provide estimates until they have first seen the job. However, you do not have to have every company give you an estimate. If they can’t answer your questions or they don’t meet your expectations, move on to the next company.

You need to decide what you are expecting from your asbestos removal. Here are questions that you may want to ask:

  • Do I want a Diamond Certified asbestos remediation service that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee?
  • What is my timeline for the removal of the asbestos?
  • How much can I budget for asbestos removal?
  • What personal and professional characteristics would I like my Contra Costa County asbestos removal company to have such as good communication skills, timeliness, honesty, integrity, and reliability?
  • Is removing asbestos going to have other consequences to my home that will require more work?
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What To Ask In Person
In-Person Interviews with Asbestos Removal Companies in Contra Costa County

Once you’ve narrowed down the field to a few of the best asbestos removal companies, visit some in person to meet their representative.

Questions you may want to consider asking at this point include:

  • Do you and your employees do all of the asbestos removal work or do you hire subcontractors?
  • Will you provide a written contract for asbestos removal?
  • How long do you estimate that the process of asbestos removal and clean-up will take?
  • Will my family have to vacate the premises during the asbestos removal and if so, for how long?
  • Do you expect that I will have to have any repeat treatments?
  • Will my family have to vacate the premises while the asbestos removal is happening?
  • How long should it take to do the asbestos removal?
  • What type of warranty do you have for asbestos removal?
  • Can I get a written contract?
  • Do you do the diagnosis, removal and clean-up?
  • Can you provide me with 10 of your most recent references?
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  • What To Ask References
    Ask These Questions When Interviewing Asbestos Remediation Service References

    It is best to choose a Diamond Certified asbestos removal company because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from an asbestos removal company in Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company.

    Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

    If you can’t find a Diamond Certified asbestos removal company within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. It’s it’s wise to call some references provided by your asbestos removal company. Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by the asbestos removal companies are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. Instead, contractors will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

    • If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.
    • Were you satisfied with the service from this asbestos removal company?
    • Did they keep communication with you up to date on the status of your project?
    • If you live in a smaller town such as Alamo, Bay Point, Bethel Island and Blackhawk, did you have to pay extra for their travel expenses to your home?
    • Did they finish the work on time?
    • Did they show up for work on time?
    • Would you recommend this asbestos removal company to your friends and family?
    • If you need this work done in the future, will you choose this same company?
    • Did they clean up after they completed the job?
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  • Review Your Options
    Finding a Trustworthy Asbestos Removal Company in Contra Costa County

    The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

    Your choice of an asbestos removal company is an important decision.

    So before deciding on the best asbestos removal company in Contra Costa County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions.

    • Is this asbestos removal company’s estimate within my budget?
    • Does the asbestos removal company offer a written warranty to back up their work?
    • Is the company knowledgeable about the techniques they will be using for asbestos removal and the specific needs of my job?
    • Can the asbestos removal company in Contra Costa County meet your needs when it comes to scheduling, customer service and experience?
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  • How To Work With
    Now that You've Found an Asbestos Removal Company in Contra Costa County

    Asbestos removal does not have to be a major financial setback. Plan your budget and stick to it. After you have found a Contra Costa County asbestos removal company in Contra Costa County that you can trust, you will have peace of mind having your asbestos removed.

    When you meet with the contractor, use the notes that you have taken so you can accurately describe any concerns that you have. Be as detailed as possible and don’t be in a rush. It is as important for you to hear their suggestions and observations as it is for them to hear you. If you don’t understand something, ask for an explanation. You need to completely comprehend the plan and any problems or solutions.

    Be sure to get all estimates in writing before any work begins. The estimate should include an itemized list of the cost of supplies and the labor. Don’t ever sign a blank estimate.

    Signing the Contract with Contra Costa County Asbestos Removal Services You Trust
    When you feel satisfied with the information you have received from your Contra Costa County asbestos removal company, sign the contract. Be sure that they have a phone number where you can be reached at all times.

    Expect the contractor to stay within the estimate. However, if the actual asbestos removal costs exceed the original amount of the estimate, the asbestos removal company must get your approval before moving ahead.

    Ways to Make the Work Easier for Your Asbestos Removal Company
    Professional asbestos removal companies are able to handle the very small to very large aspects of their work. However, there are some things that you can do to prepare for them and to make their progress in removing your asbestos go more smoothly and more quickly. Doing these things may even cut down on their labor costs and can keep your home and belongings from being damaged.

    Remove any furniture or movable items from the area where they will be working. The more you do the more quickly they can get to work.

    Keep your pets and children away from the area. Your asbestos removal company will be focused on removing the asbestos and should not have to watch out for your pets or children at any time. This not only prevents accidents and injury but also any expense that comes from accidents that may happen because of children and pets being in the way.

    Trim plants and bushes that are in the way of the asbestos removal area. You can save money and time by preparing the area for building by trimming or removing any plants, trees or bushes that are in the way. Ask your contractor what they recommend and the amount of space they require.

    Provide parking space and room for their work vehicles to maneuver. Some asbestos removal companies have large vehicles that require more space than average. Contact your contractor before they begin and ask them how many parking spaces they need and how much room they need for oversized vehicles. It is also helpful to walk through the area with your contractor so any hazards or clearance issues can be pointed out before the asbestos removal.

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  • Be a Good Customer
    Planning to Be a Good Asbestos Removal Company Customer

    It’s the asbestos removal company’s responsibility to remove your asbestos using the best possible techniques. But you play a big part in the success of your asbestos removal, too. Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring a Contra Costa County asbestos removal company.

    • Be clear and upfront with the asbestos removal company. Let them know what you want from your asbestos removal, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.
    • Be sure your service representative has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re removing the asbestos. The work will move along more smoothly if your asbestos removal company can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or work authorizations.
    • When your contractor contacts you, return calls promptly to keep the asbestos removal company on schedule.
    • Pay for the asbestos remediation services promptly.
    • Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way!
    • Before you hire an asbestos removal company in Contra Costa County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the asbestos removal representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local asbestos removal companies occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.
    • Ask your asbestos removal company if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.

    Why would you want to be a good customer? Asbestos removal companies in Contra Costa County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship. Things may very well go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved.

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Check The Work
Use the Invoice to Verify the Completed Asbestos Removal

When your asbestos removal is complete, you will be given a written invoice that details the completed work.

Complete invoices usually include:

  • The Contra Costa asbestos removal contractor’s name, physical address and license number.
  • An itemized list of all supplies purchased.
  • The total cost for supplies.
  • The total amount due for labor.
  • A list of all services performed.
  • Any applicable warrantees or guarantees provided by manufacturers or the company.

It is wise to compare the completed work with the written invoice. Ask your contractor to walk through the area with you and show you the work. Check the work with the invoice. During the walk-through, ask if there are any special instructions. If you have any questions about the work or materials used, now is the time to ask.

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Written Warranties
Be Sure to ask for Written Warranties On Your Asbestos Removal

Most good asbestos removal companies will offer some time of warranty on the asbestos removal. All details of the warranty should be provided to you in writing. This information should include:

  • The companyis name and physical address.
  • Terms, limitations and exclusions on the materials and workmanship.
  • If the warranties are transferrable to the new owner if you sell your home.
  • Your responsibility if you place a warranty claim (i.e., if you have to pay for labor or materials, or if you are required to pay a prorated amount).
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Top 10 Requests
The Most Popular Contra Costa County Asbestos Removal Services

Common asbestos removal services are listed below.

Asbestos Floor Removal
Asbestos floor removal is the removal of any flooring that contains asbestos such as vinyl or the backing or glue of any flooring.

Asbestos Abatement
Asbestos abatement is the removal of asbestos. Asbestos can also be contained so that it cannot cause harm.

Asbestos Tile Removal

Asbestos tile removal is the process of removing tiles that may contain asbestos. The tiles may also be removed because the glue that is used to adhere them contains asbestos.

Asbestos Siding Removal
Asbestos siding removal is the removal of siding that may contain asbestos. Many buildings have asbestos siding.

Garage Asbestos Removal
Garage asbestos removal is the removal of garage materials that contain asbestos. Before the 1980is, garages may have been made of corrugated sheets made of asbestos cement.

Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos Removal
Popcorn ceiling asbestos removal is the removal of popcorn ceilings. Popcorn ceilings can be made of paper and styrofoam so an asbestos removal company will need to test to determine the material.

Asbestos Roof Removal
Asbestos roof removal is the removal of a roof that contains asbestos. After the roof is removed and properly disposed of, another roof covering will need to be done.

Asbestos Dust Removal
Asbestos dust removal is the removal of asbestos dust.

Asbestos Insulation Removal
Asbestos insulation removal is the removal of insulation that contains asbestos.

Asbestos Cement Removal
Asbestos cement removal is the removal of cement that contains asbestos.

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Glossary Of Terms
Glossary of Terms for Asbestos Removal

activity-based sampling
Activity-based sampling is the process of measuring airborne concentrations of asbestos when soil has been disturbed.

Also known as: ABS

amosite
Amosite is an asbestos that is in the group of amphibole.

Also known as: brown asbestos

asbestos
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs and is composed of mineral silicate fibers from the amphibole and serpentine series.

asbestosis
Asbestosis os a disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, however, it is non-cancerous but scars the lungs’ air-exchange regions.

asbestos cement
Asbestos cement is products made of cement and sand that have been reinforced with asbestos fibers.

Also known as: AC

asbestos-containing building materials
Asbestos-containing building materials are materials used for building that contain asbestos.

Also known as: ACBM

asbestos containing material
Asbestos containing material is a material that contains asbestos.

Also known as: ACM

asbestos vacuum cleaner
Asbestos vacuum cleaner is a vacuum cleaner used for removing asbestos.

carcinogen
Carcinogen is a substance that causes cancer.

Also known as: carcinogens

chrysolite
Chrysolite is used commercial and is the common form of asbestos.

Also known as: white asbestos

contaminant
Contaminant is a substance that can cause harmful health problems and is present in the environment.

Also known as: contaminants

continuous exposure
Continuous exposure is being exposed 24 hours a day for every day of the year.

dose
Dose is the amount of asbestos or other substance a person has been exposed to over a period of time.

exposure
Exposure is being exposed to a substanced by swallowing, breathing or touching.

Also known as: acute exposure; chronic exposure

hazardous substance
Hazardous substance is any substance that is a public health or environmental threat.

Also known as: hazardous material

media
Media is any part of the environment such as soil, air, plants or animals that contain contaminating material.

mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a disease of cancer of the lungs which is caused by asbestos.

mixed cellulose ester
Mixed cellulose ester is a filter that is used for sampling air.

Also known as: MCE

permissible exposure limit
Permissible exposure limit is the amount of exposure that is permitted or allowed.

Also known as: PEL

personal protective equipment
Personal protective equipment is covering such as clothing or equipment that is work to protect a worker against hazards or dangers.

Also known as: PPE

pleural fibrosis
Pleural fibrosis is a disease of the lungs which can be caused from asbestos.

polarised light microscopy
Polarised light microscopy is a method that analyzes asbestos fibers.

Also known as: PLM

polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a type of filter that is used when the air is being sampled for asbestos.

Also known as: PC; PC filter; polycarbonate filter

presumed asbestos containing material
Presumed asbestos containing material is material that is assumed to have asbestos.

Also known as: PACM

prismatic
Prismatic is crystals that are in the shape of a prism.

risk
Risk is the chance a person has of getting an illness or disease from exposure to asbestos.

stationary air monitor
Stationary air monitor is a monitor that is used for sampling air. It is placed in one location and not moved during the sampling.

time weighting factor
Time weighting factor is the time that is considered for asbestos risk and means a lack of continuous exposure.

Also known as: TWF

vermiculite
Vermiculite, which is mined in Libby, Montana, is used for insulation and contains amphibole minerals.

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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ for Asbestos Removal Companies and Asbestos Remediation Contractors

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified asbestos removal company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose an asbestos removal company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only asbestos removal companies rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoingresearch and ratings. And your purchase is backed by theDiamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified asbestos removal company.

Q: What are the health problems related to asbestos?
A: Asbestos can cause cancer. This cancer is called mesothelioma and it affects the pleura, peritoneum or the pericardium. It also causes asbestosis which is a scarring of the lungs.

Q: Where does one find asbestos?

A: Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance and is found in the ground. It is actually being mined currently in other parts of the world including Russia and Canada. It was used for insulation products and other products that were fire resistant.

Q: Who is at risk for developing health related problem to asbestos?
A: Those that are at highest risk are those who work in industries that use asbestos on a regular basis. Shipbuilding and construction are 2 of those industries. Also, if you have mined asbestos, you are at higher risk.

Q: How do I identify asbestos?
A: You probably cannot identify asbestos just by looking at it. Asbestos fibers are long and rather like needles. Asbestos is often mixed with other materials which makes it more difficult to identify. The best way to know if your home has asbestos is to hire an asbestos removal company to survey your home. Asbestos is best dealt with by professionals.

Q: Is asbestos considered dangerous?
A: Asbestos can be dangerous especially if there is long term exposure, if it has been damaged or if it is deteriorating. Old asbestos can break apart and become airborne. When asbestos fibers are airborne, they can be inhaled and cause damage to the lungs and other areas of the body. Asbestos can cause a type of cancer called mesothelioma as well as other lung scarring and problems.

Q: How does a physician diagnose if I have been exposed to asbestos?
A: There is no test to determine if you have been exposed to asbestos. The most common way to check for exposure is to look for disease by having a chest x-ray. A physician may also give you a pulmonary function test which determines your lung capacity. If there has been a decrease in lung capacity or the x-rays show early signs of lung disease, then they may determine that you have had exposure to asbestos.If you know that you have been exposed, you may want to have regular physical examinations by a physician. The risk of developing disease is related to the frequency and length of your exposure to asbestos. Smoking cigarettes can also increase your risk of developing asbestos related diseases.

Q: If I know that I have asbestos in my house, is it absolutely necessary for me to have it removed?
A: You need to have an asbestos removal company do a test to check for asbestos. Most of the time it does not need to be removed but only an asbestos removal company can tell you that. Often the asbestos is in tile, siding or roofing. These materials don’t usually break down so an asbestos removal company will, more than likely, determine that this doesn’t need to be removed. However, if asbestos is found in an area that may be disturbed, you will want to schedule asbestos removal.

Q: Which type of asbestos is the most dangerous?
A: Crocidolite has caused more cases of mesothelioma than other types of asbestos. Most asbestos comes from the type Amphiboles. It seems that Chrysolite, which is different than Amphiboles, has fewer risks and less disease associated with it. However, any kind of asbestos carries risks associated with it.

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