Asbestos
Definition
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that has been used due to its fiber strength and heat resistance properties. It can be found in a variety of building materials and commercial products for insulation and as a fire retardant material. ¹
Sources of Asbestos
Asbestos can be found in attic and wall insulation containing vermiculite, vinyl flooring, roofing and siding shingles, textured paints on walls, hot water pipes that are coated with asbestos blanket or tape, and in heat resistant fabrics. Older homes and buildings, especially prior to the 1980s, are more likely to have asbestos-containing products since asbestos manufacturing became more federally regulated around that time. Similar to lead in paint, if the asbestos-containing product is intact and undisturbed, then it is less likely you’ll be exposed. However, when a home containing asbestos is renovated or remodeled, or if the asbestos is disturbed, tiny asbestos fibers may be released into the air where they can live for long periods of time. ¹ ²
Health Impacts
The most well-known health impacts of asbestos include lung diseases such as lung cancer, a rare form of lung cancer called mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The tiny asbestos fibers are able to bypass some of the body’s natural defenses and make their way into the lungs where they can accumulate over time. ¹
Steps for Prevention and Remediation ¹
- Leave the asbestos-containing products alone if they are intact.
- Periodically inspect material with suspected asbestos for breakdown or damage.
If concerned with asbestos exposure, hire trained professionals for testing, repair/removal of asbestos. Search the State Asbestos Contact for the appropriate contact.
Additional Resources
US EPA. Protect your Family from Exposure to Asbestos. https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/protect-your-family-exposures-asbestos
Reference List
1. American Lung Association. Asbestos. Available at: https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/asbestos. Accessed July 3, 2024.
2. EPA. Learn About Asbestos. Available at:https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/learn-about-asbestos#asbestos. Accessed July 3, 2024.