What is asbestos? Am I at risk?
There are several types of asbestos but the most common are; chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), and crocidolite (blue asbestos). These are the types most likely to occur in buildings. Primarily, Chrysotile is the most common and is the only type found in nearly all infested buildings. The brown asbestos or amosite is most commonly used in building materials. Asbestos is several fibrous silicate minerals that occur naturally. These fibers are excellent for fire proofing and insulation. Asbestos is found in cement pipes, fire blankets, elevator brake shoes, roofing felt, cement siding, and many other products.
These microscopic bundles of fibers are very dangerous if they become airborne and are inhaled into the lungs. When the fibers get trapped in lungs and surrounding tissue, the human body tries to break it down by producing acid. The highly resistant fibers are rarely damaged by the acid but the acid causes scar tissue to form. Over time, this scar tissue can increase and affect lungs from properly functioning. This can go on inside the affected person for over 20 years and even longer, before a problem is suspected.
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lung outer lining and in some cases, the abdominal wall. This cancer is only known to be caused by asbestos exposure and it too can hide for nearly 20 years as well. Other cancers such as lung cancer and stomach cancers can also be caused by exposure to asbestos.
When should you worry about asbestos exposure? If your home was constructed prior to 1950, your house could contain asbestos insulation and even in other areas of your home around hot water pipes, and numerous other places. This is not a danger to you or your family though. As long as the materials are in good shape, you can pretty much leave it alone. Asbestos is not dangerous unless it is airborne. This can happen from damaged materials.
If you have materials that are damaged and you think that they may contain asbestos, keep access to the area very limited and do not touch it. You should never try to handle asbestos materials on your own—contact a professional at once. You should never risk exposure even if the repair is a small one. A professional will come in and repair and seal the materials or completely remove them. This is way you should not attempt your own repairs. Before beginning a home remodel or renovation you should find out if your housing materials contain asbestos. So, during the work the materials will be handled correctly and will not be damaged.
What are some symptoms you can look for? Chronic long term exposure to asbestos can cause shortness of breath; problems with breathing, coughing, and the symptoms worsen over time. Asbestos’ effects can be seen in the lungs in an X-ray of the chest. This is the best way to determine the early signs of lung cancer and scar tissue from asbestos.
Of course there are some tips for preventing your exposure to asbestos. If you are planning a renovation contact a professional that can determine if you have asbestos containing materials. If the materials are in good condition, asbestos is unlikely to be a problem. If materials are damaged a professional should be called in to seal and repair or to completely remove the asbestos. Never try to do this on your own. Professionals are trained to handle asbestos and the removal process. Do not vacuum or sweep the area, this can cause the particles to stir into the air. Asbestos is dangerous, but not really of concern unless you are remodeling or you work in the industries at risk of coming into contact of asbestos.
