Chicago has thousands of older commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential buildings that were constructed when asbestos-containing materials were commonly used. If an older building is being renovated, demolished, repaired, or disturbed, an asbestos inspection may be necessary to identify potentially hazardous materials before work begins.
Understanding when to schedule an asbestos inspection can help Chicago building owners, property managers, contractors, and businesses protect occupants and workers while meeting applicable asbestos regulations.
Where Can Asbestos Be Found in Older Chicago Buildings?
Asbestos was used in many construction and building materials because of its durability and resistance to heat and fire. Although its use has declined significantly, asbestos-containing materials may still be present in older Chicago properties.
Potential materials can include floor tile and adhesive, pipe insulation, boiler insulation, ceiling materials, roofing products, fireproofing, cement products, insulation, and other building materials.
The presence of an older material does not automatically mean it contains asbestos. Proper inspection and laboratory testing may be needed to determine whether asbestos is present.
When Should You Schedule an Asbestos Inspection?
One of the most important times to consider an asbestos inspection is before renovation or demolition work that could disturb existing building materials.
Projects involving walls, ceilings, flooring, insulation, mechanical systems, roofing, piping, or other building components may disturb materials that contain asbestos.
An inspection may also be appropriate when purchasing or managing an older commercial property, planning major repairs, responding to damaged suspect materials, or developing an asbestos management plan.
Why Is Asbestos a Concern During Renovation?
Asbestos-containing materials that remain intact and undisturbed may present different risks than materials that are cut, drilled, sanded, removed, or damaged.
Renovation and demolition activities can disturb asbestos-containing materials and potentially release fibers into the air. This is why identifying suspect materials before work begins is an important part of project planning.
What Happens During an Asbestos Inspection?
An asbestos inspection typically begins with an evaluation of the building and the materials that may be affected by the proposed work.
Suspect building materials may be identified and samples collected for laboratory analysis. The findings can then help property owners and contractors determine what steps may be necessary before renovation, demolition, or other work proceeds.
The scope of an inspection can vary depending on the building, its age, the planned project, and applicable regulatory requirements.
Asbestos Inspections for Chicago Commercial and Industrial Properties
Older offices, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, schools, healthcare facilities, apartment buildings, and other Chicago properties may contain materials that were installed decades ago.
Scheduling an asbestos inspection early in the planning process can help identify potential issues before construction begins. This can reduce unexpected project delays while helping building owners and contractors properly plan for materials that require special handling.
Chicago Asbestos Inspection and Consulting Services
Hygieneering provides professional asbestos inspection, assessment, and environmental health and safety services for businesses, property owners, contractors, and facilities throughout Chicago and the surrounding area.
If you are renovating, demolishing, repairing, or managing an older Chicago building, identifying potential asbestos-containing materials should be considered before materials are disturbed.
Contact Hygieneering to discuss your Chicago property and determine what type of asbestos inspection or assessment may be appropriate for your project.