Asbestos Insulation: The Lurking Danger

Asbestos insulation contains asbestos, a mineral widely used in building materials because of its stability and heat resistant properties. However, asbestos is much in news because of the dangerous diseases caused because of its exposure. All insulations do not contain asbestos. Insulations are made of other materials as well, therefore it needs to be determined that the insulation contains asbestos and is there any need for taking corrective measures to prevent health hazards. This is a specialized task and you will have to take the services of a State certified professional for this task.

Asbestos insulation can pose a serious risk to the health, especially when the condition of the asbestos insulation is not good, i.e., it is old or breaking down. The insulation erodes and produces dust in the normal course of usage. This is a serious concern because the asbestos fibers are very small and invisible to the naked eyes. The person who inhales this asbestos contaminated dust could develop asbestos diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma cancers and asbestosis.

There is no need for immediate worry and removal if the asbestos insulation is in good condition. However, in the due course, the old asbestos insulation should be replaced by a new insulation. To ensure that there is no or minimum exposure to asbestos fibers, asbestos insulation should not be disturbed. In case, it is not in good condition and is producing dust, then it should be covered with a plastic or plywood sheet to prevent the risk of contacting asbestos based diseases. It is advisable to seek the advise from professional asbestos abatement experts for the assessment of the condition of asbestos insulation and its removal through specialized firms, if required.

Exposure to asbestos fibers through asbestos insulation is harmful, when the exposure is for long. Even Short-term exposure is risky because there are no safe levels of asbestos exposure. If you have any symptoms of asbestos diseases and difficulty in breathing, consul a physician experienced in occupational and environmental medicine.

Latest Articles

---

• A Guide To Insulation For Your Home
• Asbestos Insulation: The Lurking Danger
• Garage Door Seal Considerations