The decision to remove asbestos materials is heavily influenced by the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and exposure can lead to severe health issues, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Due to the potential for serious health consequences, regulatory bodies and safety organizations emphasize the importance of prioritizing health risks when determining the necessity of asbestos removal. This concern drives many organizational policies and legal requirements, placing health protection at the forefront of decision-making.
While employee preference, the availability of alternative materials, and the cost of removal can all play roles in the decision-making process, none carry the weight of health-related considerations. Health risks create a sense of urgency and necessity for action that is not matched by the other factors, reinforcing why health risks are regarded as a major influence in the decision to remove asbestos materials.