Asbestos Testing in Los Angeles

• Asbestos testing is needed regardless of whether your city requires asbestos testing as part of the permit process.
• Smaller jobs usually limited to 1-3 material types in a few areas.
• These jobs are usually due to a renovation or mold remediation in specific areas.
• Walls, ceiling or flooring are usually the extent of these small jobs.

• Larger jobs where either a portion of the structure or the entire structure will be demolished.
• These jobs usually have multiple material types involved, especially if it’s an older structure.
• There are multiple Air Districts in California and each Air District has slightly different rules related to asbestos.
• San Diego falls under SDAPCD and Rule 1206 deals with asbestos testing.
• Los Angeles and Orange County fall under South Coast AQMD and Rule 1403.

• Performed after asbestos abatement to ensure no asbestos is remaining.
• Includes air sampling to test the air quality.

Lungs with asbestos related diseases

“Lung cancer is often associated with some sort of exposure to toxic substances. The vast majority of cases are caused by smoking, but the second leading cause is exposure to radon. Though not nearly as many cases have been linked to asbestos exposure, research has suggested that asbestos-related lung c

ancer is more prevalent than we realize.

Asbestos exposure often occurs in the workplace, but it can also occur at home as a result of construction projects or deteriorating asbestos products or through secondhand exposure. No amount of asbestos exposure is considered safe, though researchers note that the duration of exposure puts people at a higher lung cancer risk. Once the asbestos is inhaled, our body is unable to remove the toxin and the asbestos fibers can cause damage over time and develop into asbestos cancer.

Misconceptions

There are some misconceptions around mesothelioma and lung cancer. Many people confuse mesothelioma and lung cancer since the majority of mesothelioma cases affect the lungs. But malignant mesothelioma develops when the asbestos fibers scar and lead to tumors in the lining of the lungs, the mesothelium. Mesothelioma can also first develop in other parts of the body, like the abdominal cavity or lining of the heart. In cases of asbestos lung cancer, the fibers become lodged in the lung tissue, which can also cause irritation and scarring over time that can develop into tumors. Asbestos can cause any type and subset of lung cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer.”

Click here for more info.

“Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by asbestos. It most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs or the abdomen. The average life expectancy is 12 – 21 months after diagnosis, but prognosis may improve with treatment. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath and general fatigue.

Mesothelioma symptoms can take 10 – 50 years to emerge after initial exposure to asbestos. Symptoms are often mistaken for less serious illnesses, which can complicate early diagnosis. When symptoms present, patients should seek medical attention, as early detection may improve mesothelioma prognosis.”

Click here for more info.

“Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Prolonged exposure to these fibers can cause lung tissue scarring and shortness of breath. Asbestosis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and usually don’t appear until many years after continued exposure.

Asbestos is a natural mineral product that’s resistant to heat and corrosion. It was used extensively in the past in products such as insulation, cement and some floor tiles.

Most people with asbestosis acquired it on the job before the federal government began regulating the use of asbestos and asbestos products in the 1970s. Today, its handling is strictly regulated. Acquiring asbestosis is extremely unlikely if you follow your employer’s safety procedures. Treatment focuses on relieving your symptoms.”

Click here for more info.