If your construction project requires demolition, understand what hazardous materials may be discovered in the process. Exposing them can prove a threat to yourselves, your neighbors and the surrounding ecosystem if not properly contained and disposed of. This is especially true in demolition of old and damaged buildings which have a much higher chance of containing hazardous materials. Before you remodel or tear down a structure, it’s important to know what hazards it might contain, both for your own health, and the health of those around you.
Types of Hazardous Materials
If you’re planning on demolition to clear a building or for renovations, it’s important to first inspect the structures, rooms and inner spaces for common hazardous materials. This will allow you to properly handle and disposed them. Depending on the age and purpose of the structure, you will have to deal with the possibility of the following materials:
Asbestos
Once hailed as a miracle material for its durability and resistance to heat, chemicals, and electricity, the inhalation of this mineral can cause various lung diseases. Older buildings used materials containing asbestos in floor tiles, drywall and fire and electric-resistance insulation. Demolition or construction on buildings that contain this material pose a large health risk without the proper safety and disposal measures.
Lead Paint
Survey any building painted before 1980 to see if it contains lead paint. For many old homes, there may be layers of paint under wallpaper or under ceiling treatments. Be sure to hire a contractor that is lead certified to remove lead paint during a remodel. For demolitions, the old walls will need proper disposal.
PBC
Polychlorinated biphenyl or PBC was used primarily as a caulking material and electrical ballast in homes built before 1978. This toxic chemical can leach into the soil and contaminate the earth for years afterwards if not carefully disposed.
Mercury
Mercury switches, as well as florescent and HID light bulbs, all contain toxic mercury. You must handle these items with care during removal and disposal. Breaking them will cause the liquid mercury to flow out and contaminate additional debris and the grounds.
Proper Disposal of Hazardous Waste
Once you’ve inspected and located these hazardous wastes, the EPA and state regulations must be followed. In Massachusetts Hazardous Waste Disposal is covered under the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.
- Store hazardous waste in a proper container and labeled.
- You must locate your local disposal or recycling facility.
- Properly transport that container to the facility.
You may be able to dispose a small amount of hazardous waste from a residential site in public facilities for free or nominal fees. Large scale disposal from major renovations and demolitions may require using a private facility.
Professional Demolition Contractors
When a building has to come down, especially if it has been damaged, hazardous materials are a major reason why it pays to hire a professional demolition contractor. At New England Enterprises we have over 25 years’ experience with excavation, landscaping, and demolitions. We have the right equipment to safely and quickly demolish any structure. Our professionals can properly handle and dispose of all of the waste materials—hazardous or not. If you’re planning a major project and want the help of licensed professionals with major equipment, contact New England Enterprises.