What is asbestos and why should I be concerned about it?
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant. It is commonly found in older homes, in pipe and furnace insulation materials, mineral siding, roofing paper and shingles, millboard, gray coat in plaster, spackle used for repairing plaster or wallboard, wallboard joint compound, textured paints, other coating materials and vinyl floor tiles. Major concerns with asbestos are deteriorating, damaged or disturbed materials. Elevated concentrations can occur after asbestos containing materials are disturbed by cutting, sanding, and other remodeling activities or by improper removal attempts.
There are no immediate symptoms from excessive asbestos exposure, but there is a long-term risk of chest and abdominal cancers and lung disease. Smokers are at a higher risk of developing asbestos-induced lung cancer.
What are some of the health effects of asbestos?
The most dangerous asbestos fibers are too small to be visible. After they are inhaled, they can remain and accumulate in the lungs. Asbestos can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma – a cancer of the chest and abdominal lining, and asbestosis – irreversible lung scarring that can be fatal. Symptoms do not show up until many years after exposure began. Most people with asbestos-related disease were exposed to elevated concentrations on the job.
If I’m concerned about asbestos in my home, what can I do to deal with the problem?
If you think your home may have asbestos, don’t panic. Usually it is best to leave asbestos materials that are in good condition alone. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers.
Do not cut, rip, or sand asbestos containing materials. Leave undamaged materials alone and, to the extent possible, prevent them from being damaged, disturbed or touched. Repairs can be made by the homeowner but we recommend that you do not apply duct tape directly onto the asbestos material. Duct tape can make future removal more dangerous and, as the adhesive dries out over time, the tape can pull away and actually create a more hazardous situation. Homeowners should contact the Indoor Air and Toxics Section of the Health Department for guidance on repairs they can undertake themselves. |
