A University of Toronto innovation is helping firefighters track the effects when it comes to exposure to asbestos and other hazardous substances.
Statistics show that firefighters do suffer from an increased risk of mesothelioma – twice as high in some studies. Mesothelioma is the result of exposure to asbestos fibres. Because of their virtually indestructible nature, they do not deteriorate but instead disrupt the tissue itself and decades later, develop into cancerous mesothelioma.
Asbestos & Firefighters
Asbestos was once widely used in both public and private buildings. Mixed with various other components such as vinyl, linoleum or concrete, it was used from floor to ceiling. Such asbestos containing materials (ACM) are considered safe as long as they are intact, however once they deteriorate – as they often do under the extreme heat conditions of a fire – they can release asbestos fibres into the air. It’s a very real hazard for firefighters as the statistics attest to.
A new app called Xposure, developed by a group of recent graduates from U of T Engineering. The project began when the group were undergrads and serves to help firefighters track their exposure to hazardous substances like asbestos. Previously, firefighters filled out an annual questionnaire and it is hoped that instantaneous reporting via mobile phone app will provide much better statistics to draw from and aid them if it comes time to claim compensation. It uses an intuitive questionnaire format to provide information that can also serve to help them in the future, creating a data base that can be analyzed and used to take proactive measures.
The app is currently being used by about 50 members of the Hamilton Professional Firefighters Association, with plans to expand.
Asbestos in Your Home
If you are unfortunate enough to have a fire in your home, it’s likely the firefighters who will be exposed to asbestos fibres. However, there are many other ways that you as a home or property owner can be exposed to asbestos.
- Renovations that involve removing walls;
- Installing a home theatre system;
- Installing a home alarm system;
- Replacing roof tiles;
- Replacing old flooring;
- Working popcorn ceilings or removing textured paints.
It’s No Joke
Asbestos is a known health hazard. If you have asbestos in your home, the only way to proceed is with safety in mind. You can trust the experienced asbestos removal and asbestos remediation experts at GreenStream Environmental to take care of the issue for you. In the Toronto area contact GreenStreamEnvironmental.ca at (416) 818-9414. Contact us for a quote today.
Featured in Mike Holmes’ magazine, HGTV’s Income Properties, W Network’s Love It Or List It and chosen by Homestars.com as “Best Toronto Asbestos Removal Company” based on customer ratings and reviews, GreenStream Environmental Services are fully-certified, trusted and insured professionals in the removal and disposal of commercial, industrial, institutional and residential asbestos, vermiculite and mould (hazardous and non-hazardous). Providing emergency service 24/7/365 for all of Toronto and the GTA (North York, Mississauga, Markham, Brampton, Scarborough, Ajax, Oshawa, and beyond) GreenStream has over 40 combined years of experience serving clients such as the City of Toronto, the Toronto District School Board and many more. For a free estimate in Toronto, the GTA and Southern Ontario, call today at 416-818-9414. You’ll be glad you did.
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