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If you are concerned about asbestos exposure you are not alone. Many
individuals wonder if they have been exposed, and if so, what they
can do to help protect their health. If you think that you have
been exposed to asbestos or are looking for ways to prevent an
exposure, look no further. We will go over some of the health
problems that arise from asbestos exposure, and what can be
done to prevent them.
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used for a variety of
different applications. Many homes may have this material in their
insulation, as it is a fire retardant. Once exposed, individuals
can inhale the microscopic asbestos particles and take them into
their lungs. Once there, the fibers can cause lung cancer. If
prolonged exposure occurs, an individual can also develop cancer
in the chest cavity and abdomen.
It is important to note that many individuals have experienced brief
exposure and been just fine. The fine asbestos particles are
difficult to see and get rid of, so it is common for them to
remain in their air for long periods of time thus increasing
the risk of cancer. Smokers are at an increased risk for side
effects due to exposure.
If you think that your home may have asbestos there are several
places that you want to look. It is important to remember
that products today do not contain the fiber, only things
built in the 1970’s or earlier.
- Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts could be insulated with
an asbestos blanket or asbestos paper tape. If the fibers become
damaged or are repaired improperly, they could lead to exposure.
- Resilient floor tiles- the backing on many vinyl sheet flooring
and adhesives could contain asbestos. Sanding the tiles or
scraping them could release the fibers.
- Cement, millboard, and paper that were used as insulation
around furnaces and wood burning stoves. Repairing or
removing these appliances could stir up the fibers.
- Door gaskets- in furnaces, wood stoves, and coal stoves.
- Sound proofing or decorative material sprayed on walls and
ceilings. Sanding, drilling or scraping the material could be
harmful.
- Cement roofing, shingles, and siding. This usually only
cause a problem when sawed, drilled, or cut.
If you think that you have asbestos in your home, don’t panic. If
the material is good condition, you can leave it alone. It is only
when these materials are disturbed that there is a problem. If you
find a damaged area- discard it using asbestos gloves and a
facial mask. Your local health or environmental officials
will be able to walk you through the proper disposal procedure.
Always check with them when beginning any remodeling job.
Remember, the only way to find out if something contains asbestos
is to look at it under a microscope. Enlist the help of a professional,
and let them handle the details. They are trained in such removal
procedures and can help ensure the safety of your family and loved ones.
About The Author
Kasi Jones is a freelance health writer and contributing author to
http://www.asbestoscenter.info - a site providing free
information on asbestos and mesothelioma.
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