What can a homeowner do to ensure the safe management of asbestos in their home?

To ensure the safe management of asbestos in a home, a homeowner should seal the asbestos or call a professional for its removal. This approach is critical because asbestos, when disturbed, can release dangerous fibers into the air, posing serious health risks, including lung disease and cancer. Professionals are equipped with the necessary training, protective gear, and proper safety protocols to handle and dispose of asbestos safely, minimizing exposure to harmful materials.

Sealing asbestos involves using encapsulating products that prevent the release of fibers into the air, which can be an effective temporary solution if the asbestos is in good condition and undisturbed. However, the best practice for long-term safety, especially if the asbestos is deteriorating or if renovations are planned, is to have a licensed professional perform a safe removal.

Other options, such as trying to remove asbestos oneself or ignoring it, can significantly increase health risks due to improper handling of the material. Painting over asbestos is similarly inadequate, as it does not eliminate the risk but rather conceals it, potentially leading to problems if the painted surface is disturbed later. Therefore, the correct course of action for homeowners is to either seal the asbestos safely or seek the expertise of professionals in the field.