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Friable Abatement in Charleston, SC

Asbestos Abatement in North Charleston, SC

What is Friable Asbestos?

Friable asbestos refers to any asbestos-containing material (ACM) that can be easily crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure. This makes it more dangerous than non-friable asbestos because its fibers become airborne more easily, increasing the risk of inhalation and asbestos-related diseases.


Why is Friable Asbestos Dangerous?

Friable asbestos poses a significant health risk because airborne fibers can enter the respiratory system and become lodged in lung tissue. Long-term exposure can lead to serious illnesses, including:

  • Mesothelioma – A rare, aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen.
  • Asbestosis – Chronic lung disease caused by asbestos fiber inhalation, leading to scarring and breathing difficulties.
  • Lung Cancer – Prolonged asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer.
  • Pleural Thickening (Pleural Plaques) – Scarring of the lung lining, which can cause chest pain and breathlessness.

Where is Friable Asbestos Found?

Friable asbestos is commonly found in older buildings, industrial facilities, and shipyards in materials such as:

  • Sprayed-on insulation (fireproofing and soundproofing materials)
  • Drywall
  • Residential plumbing
  • Sheet vinyl flooring and linoleum
  • HVAC insulation
  • Textured coatings and acoustic ceilings
  • Thermal system insulation (pipe and boiler insulation)
  • Laboratory fume hoods and insulation


How is Friable Asbestos Removed?

Since disturbing friable asbestos releases hazardous fibers, removal must follow strict abatement procedures:

1. Site Assessment & Testing

A certified asbestos inspector collects samples to confirm the presence of friable asbestos. If found, a licensed abatement contractor develops a removal plan in compliance with EPA, OSHA, and local regulations.

2. Containment & Sealing

To prevent fiber contamination, the affected area is sealed using:

  • Negative air pressure systems – Prevents fibers from spreading beyond the worksite.
  • Plastic sheeting – Covers surfaces to trap asbestos dust.
  • HEPA-filtered air scrubbers – Captures airborne particles.

3. Wet Removal Method

Spraying the material with water and a surfactant reduces fiber release. This keeps the asbestos damp during removal, making it less likely to become airborne.

4. Safe Handling & Packaging

Workers wearing full-body PPE, HEPA-filter respirators, and disposable coveralls carefully remove the material and seal it in labeled, leak-tight containers for disposal at an approved hazardous waste facility.

5. Decontamination & Air Monitoring

After removal, the area is decontaminated using HEPA vacuums and wet-wiping methods. Air monitoring ensures asbestos levels are below regulatory limits before the site is deemed safe for re-entry.



Can You Remove Friable Asbestos Yourself?

Due to its high risk, friable asbestos should be handled by certified asbestos abatement professionals. We strongly advise consulting with a licensed expert before making any decision to remove asbestos yourself. Disturbing asbestos without proper training and equipment can release dangerous fibers into the air, posing serious health risks to you and your family. For your safety and peace of mind, always trust professionals to assess and handle asbestos removal.

Does Asbestos Abatement Make a Building Safe?

Yes, when done correctly. Professional abatement significantly reduces exposure risks. However, if asbestos remain in the building, regular asbestos inspections should be conducted to prevent future contamination.

Who to Contact for Friable Asbestos Abatement?

If you suspect friable asbestos in your home or workplace, contact licensed asbestos abatement companies in your area to ensure safe removal and compliance with local laws.

Got a Question? We’re Here to Help.

You can arrange an appointment or make an enquiry by phone or email, orget in touch to us via our contact form.

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Frequently AskED Questions

Take a moment to read answers to our most frequently asked questions about our services.

  • What happens if you breathe in asbestos once?

    There is no safe level of breathing exposure. but breathing asbestos fibers may raise your chance of developing numerous dangerous illnesses, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Asbestos exposure may raise the risk of digestive system malignancies, such as colon cancer.

  • What is asbestos found in homes built between the 1940s and 1980s?

    Asbestos was commonly used in homes built between the 1940s and 1980s due to its heat resistance and durability. It can be found in insulation (walls, attics, and around pipes), vinyl floor tiles, ceiling textures (like popcorn ceilings), drywall joint compound, roofing materials, siding, and HVAC duct insulation. Disturbing these materials can release harmful fibers, so it's important to consult a certified asbestos professional before starting any renovations or removals.

  • What is asbestos found in commercial building?

    In commercial buildings, asbestos was widely used for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. Common materials that may contain asbestos include pipe and boiler insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, spray-applied fireproofing, roofing materials, HVAC duct insulation, and wall or ceiling joint compounds. These materials were especially prevalent in buildings constructed before the 1980s. Due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, it's crucial to have any suspect materials inspected by a certified professional before any renovation or demolition work.


  • Can mesothelioma be cured if caught early?

    Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, treatment choices and prognosis increase if the cancer is detected early. However, because the interval between first being exposed to asbestos and being diagnosed with mesothelioma is typically between 20 and 50 years, the disease is usually discovered when it is advanced.

  • Why are popcorn ceilings bad?

    Before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prohibited it in 1977, asbestos was commonly employed in acoustic textured ceiling paint in most homes. If your ceiling tests positive for asbestos, it's best to get it removed by a professional.

Cities We Proudly Service

Click on the dropdown below to see all the cities we provide friable asbestos contracting services.

  • Service Areas

    Charleston County

    • Awendaw, SC
    • Charleston, SC
    • Folly Beach, SC
    • Hollywood, SC
    • Isle Of Palms, SC
    • James Island, SC
    • Kiawah Island, SC
    • Lincolnville, SC
    • Mcclellanville, SC
    • Meggett, SC
    • Mount Pleasant, SC
    • North Charleston, SC
    • Ravenel, SC
    • Rockville, SC
    • Seabrook Island, SC
    • Sullivan's Island, SC

    Berkeley County

    • Bonneau Beach, SC
    • Bonneau, SC
    • Daniel Island, SC
    • Goose Creek, SC
    • Hanahan, SC
    • Jamestown, SC
    • Ladson, SC
    • Moncks Corner, SC
    • Pinopolis, SC
    • Russellville, SC
    • Sangaree, SC
    • St. Stephen, SC

    Dorchester County

    • Harleyville, SC
    • Reevesville, SC
    • Ridgeville, SC
    • St. George, SC
    • Summerville, SC

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Address:125 Bud Lane Ladson Charleston, SC 29486

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Servicing North Charleston and all of South Carolina

EAS Environmental provides many services related to environmental hazardous abatement and cleanup as well as solving moisture control issues.

Related Services

Please see our most requested services listed below. EAS Environmental is here for you when you need asbestos or lead abatement, or moisture control service to prevent mold growth.

Asbestos Removal

With asbestos removal services, you'll never again have to worry about this hazardous substance that could wreak havoc on your health and wellbeing. Whether its in a private residence or commercial setting, we're a licensed and certified abatement firm that will remove asbestos from anywhere it may be found! 

Demolition Services

It's hard to find a good demolition company, especially if you're in an emergency situation. We are the best demolition company around, and we can handle any job big or small. Our team of experts have years of experience under their belt so they'll be able to get your project done right the first time. 

Disaster Restoration: Fire and Water Damage Restoration

When disaster strikes, fast action is critical. If your home or business has suffered fire or smoke damage, don’t wait—EAS Environmental is here to help. Our expert team provides responsive and prompt fire and damage restoration services to help you recover quickly and safely. Call us today to learn more about our fire damage repair services near you!

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Did you know that asbestos containing materials are still being sold in today? Call us today to find out more!

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