asbestos...

This passage outlines the past and present use of asbestos, the potential health hazard associated with this material, and how to prevent exposure.

Few words in a contractor’s vocabulary carry more negative connotations than asbestos. According to the Asbestos Network, “touted as a miracle substance,” asbestos is the generic term for several naturally occurring mineral fibers mined primarily for use as fireproof insulation. Known for strength, flexibility, low electrical conductivity, and resistance to heat, asbestos is comprised of silicon, oxygen, hydrogen, and assorted metals. Before the public knew asbestos could be harmful to one’s health, it was found in a variety of products to strengthen them and to provide insulation and fire resistance. Asbestos is generally made up of fiber bundles that can be broken up into long, thin fibers. We now know from various studies that when this friable substance is released into the air and inhaled into the lungs over a period of time, it can lead to a higher risk of lung cancer and condition known as asbestosis. Asbestosis, a thickening and scarring of the lung tissue, usually occurs when a person is exposed to high asbestos levels over an extensive period of time. Unfortunately, the symptoms do not usually appear until about twenty years after initial exposure, making it difficult to reverse or prevent. In addition, smoking while exposed to asbestos fibers could further increase the risk of developing lung cancer. When it comes to asbestos exposure in the home, school, and work-place, there is no safe level; any exposure is considered harmful and dangerous. Prior to the 1970s asbestos use was ubiquitous—many commercial building and home insulation products contained asbestos. In the home in particular, there are many places where asbestos hazards might be present. Building materials that may contain asbestos include fireproofing material (sprayed on beams), insulation material (on pipes and oil and coal furnaces), acoustical or soundproofing material (sprayed onto ceilings and walls), and in miscellaneous materials, such as asphalt, vinyl, and cement to make products like roofing felts, shingles, siding, wallboard, and floor tiles.

We advise homeowners and concerned consumers to examine material in their homes if they suspect it may contain asbestos. If the material is in good condition, fibers will not break down, releasing the chemical debris that may be a danger to members of the household. Asbestos is a powerful substance and should be handled by an expert. Do not touch or disturb the material—it may then become damaged and release fibers. Contact local health, environmental, or other appropriate officials to find out proper handling and disposal procedures, if warranted. If asbestos removal or repair is needed you should contact a professional.

Asbestos contained in high-traffic public buildings, such as schools presents the opportunity for disturbance and potential exposure to students and employees. To protect individuals, the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) was signed in 1986. This law requires public and private non-profit primary and secondary schools to inspect their buildings for asbestos-containing building materials. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published regulations for schools to follow in order to protect against asbestos contamination and provide assistance to meet the AHERA requirements. These include performing an original inspection and periodic re-inspections every three years for asbestos containing material; developing, maintaining, and updating an asbestos management plan at the school; providing yearly notification to parent, teacher, and employee organizations regarding the availability of the  school’s asbestos management plan and any asbestos abatement actions taken or planned in the school; designating a contact person to ensure the responsibilities of the local education agency are properly implemented; performing periodic surveillance of known or suspected asbestos-containing building material; and providing custodial staff with asbestos awareness training.