What is an important factor to consider when performing an asbestos inspection?

When performing an asbestos inspection, the age of the building is a critical factor to take into account. Structures built before the 1980s are more likely to contain asbestos, as the material was widely used in construction during that time due to its favorable properties, such as fire resistance and insulation. Understanding the age of the building helps inspectors identify areas where asbestos might be present, guiding them in which materials and locations to investigate more thoroughly.

Taking the age of the building into consideration allows inspectors to adopt the appropriate safety measures and procedures during the inspection process. Buildings constructed after the widespread banning of asbestos materials are typically at a lower risk, making this information essential for accurately assessing the potential presence of asbestos. This knowledge helps inform subsequent actions, such as whether to conduct sampling or prepare for potential remediation efforts.