Asbestos is a material that has been used in building materials for decades, with its heat-resistant properties making it an ideal and versatile choice. It’s commonly found in insulation, roofing shingles, pipe coverings, ceiling tiles, and even decorative coatings and wallpaper. However, asbestos comes with serious dangers of asbestos , which unfortunately are only too often overlooked.
The Health Risks of Asbestos
The most concerning risk posed by asbestos is the inhalation or ingestion of airborne particles. When the material begins to degrade—which can be caused by weathering, aging, cutting, etching, or other processes—the resulting fibers become airborne and can be inhaled easily. Although these fibers are thin, their impact on a person’s health can be very damaging.
The most severe form of illness associated with asbestos is mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdominal cavity. This incurable condition is rarely seen outside of individuals who have been exposed to asbestos, as it usually takes between 10 and 40 years to manifest itself after exposure, though it can take longer in some cases.
Other Health Effects of Asbestos
In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos can also cause other forms of cancer, such as lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, ovarian cancer, and throat cancer. Noncancerous conditions such as asbestosis and pleural effusions can also result from prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers, leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, and other respiratory issues.
People who work around asbestos materials are at particularly high risk, as it is easy for airborne particles to come into contact with them while they are performing their duties. Even if workers wear protective clothing, they may still be exposed to the hazardous material if they don’t take proper safety precautions.
Protecting Yourself From Asbestos
Fortunately, it is possible to protect yourself against these dangers of asbestos. If you are renovating an older home or carrying out repairs, ensuring that any products you use are asbestos-free is key, as is wearing appropriate protective gear. In addition, it is important to ensure that the area is well-ventilated while you are working as this will help to reduce your risk of exposure.
In some cases, it may be necessary to have an asbestos inspection carried out before you begin work. Professional asbestos removalists are trained to safely remove the material and should always be consulted if there is any doubt about asbestos presence.
It is also important to ensure that all materials containing asbestos are disposed of correctly, in accordance with local regulations. That way, you can rest assured the dangerous material won’t find its way back into your home.
If you are concerned that there may be asbestos materials present in your home, be sure to take appropriate steps to investigate and get rid of such hazards. Doing so can help to ensure both your safety and the safety of those around you.