Asbestos is common in many buildings throughout the U.S. that are still occupied. It presents no danger unless airborne. In most places, the risk of being exposed to asbestos is very slight, but that risk goes up with certain professions, including auto mechanics and construction workers.
History
The history of asbestos use goes back centuries. The name comes from a Greek word meaning "indestructible" or "inextinguishable." Asbestos was widely used in many buildings until 1972, when the negative health effects became apparent. Asbestos is used mainly for insulation because of its resistance to heat. Many pipes, ducts, vents and ceiling panels contain asbestos.
Types
Asbestos was used in a wide variety of products, including roofing materials, Spackle compound, brake pads, floor tiles and furnaces. Asbestos used to be contained in some sprays for coatings and other products, but was banned in the 1970s.
Identification
It can be difficult and expensive to determine if asbestos is present. The best way to find out is to have it tested or research the dates of manufacture, previous claims of asbestos and published reports. The EPA has published a guide to help determine if a product is likely to contain asbestos, but recommends that if there is a chance the product contains asbestos, treat as it though it does to avoid any potential harm.
Effects
The effects of asbestos are only apparent about 15 years after the exposure. The effects are much like the effects of smoking. The more a person is exposed to asbestos, the more likely they are to contract mesothelioma, lung cancer or other respiratory problems.
Prevention
If you suspect that there is asbestos in your house, tiles, furnace or other areas, it is best to get it investigated through city and state inspectors. If asbestos is present, it is not of any danger unless it becomes airborne. If that's a possibility, it must be cleaned out.
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