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Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used for a variety of different applications. Many homes may have this material in their insulation, as it is a fire retardant. Once exposed, individuals can inhale the microscopic asbestos particles and take them into their lungs. Once there, the fibers can cause lung cancer. If prolonged exposure occurs, an individual can also develop cancer in the chest cavity and abdomen. |
It is important to note that many individuals have experienced brief exposure and been just fine. The fine asbestos particles are difficult to see and get rid of, so it is common for them to remain in their air for long periods of time thus increasing the risk of cancer. Smokers are at an increased risk for side effects due to exposure.
Find a Pre-Screened Home Inspector Contractor in Your Area
If you think that your home may have asbestos there
are several places that you want to look. It is
important to remember that products today do not
contain the fiber, only things built in the 1970’s
or earlier.
- Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts could be
insulated with an asbestos blanket or asbestos paper
tape. If the fibers become damaged or are repaired
improperly, they could lead to exposure.
- Resilient floor tiles- the backing on many vinyl
sheet flooring and adhesives could contain asbestos.
Sanding the tiles or scraping them could release the
fibers.
- Cement, millboard, and paper that were used as
insulation around furnaces and wood burning stoves.
Repairing or removing these appliances could stir up
the fibers.
- Door gaskets- in furnaces, wood stoves, and coal
stoves.
- Sound proofing or decorative material sprayed on
walls and ceilings. Sanding, drilling or scraping
the material could be harmful.
- Cement roofing, shingles, and siding. This usually
only cause a problem when sawed, drilled, or cut.
If you think that you have asbestos in your home,
don’t panic. If the material is good condition, you
can leave it alone. It is only when these materials
are disturbed that there is a problem. If you find a
damaged area- discard it using asbestos gloves and a
facial mask. Your local health or environmental
officials will be able to walk you through the
proper disposal procedure. Always check with them
when beginning any remodeling job.
Remember, the only way to find out if something
contains asbestos is to look at it under a
microscope. Enlist the help of a professional, and
let them handle the details. They are trained in
such removal procedures and can help ensure the
safety of your family and loved ones.
About the Author: Kasi Jones is a freelance health writer and contributing author to http://www.asbestoscenter.info – a site providing free information on asbestos and mesothelioma.
