Asbestos exposure and cancer

When tiny bits of asbestos get into the air, they can be breathed directly into the lungs of people nearby. Types of asbestos with sharp fibers that can be easily inhaled include:

• Actinolite asbestos was used in products like cement, insulation, paint, and drywall.
• Amosite asbestos (brown asbestos) was commonly used in cement, insulation, roofing, and other construction materials.
• Anthophyllite asbestos is a less common type that can be found in cement and insulation materials.
• Crocidolite asbestos (blue asbestos) is the most dangerous type. The fine fibers are easy to inhale. It was used in cement, tiles, and insulation.
• Tremolite asbestos is heat-resistant and can be woven into fabric. It is no longer mined but was previously used in products like paint, sealants, insulation, roofing, and plumbing materials.

Asbestos fibers can also get into the mouth and be accidentally swallowed. Chrysotile asbestos (white asbestos) can be inhaled but is the most common type associated with swallowing.

Although some companies argue that the chrysotile asbestos mined today is safe when used in certain products, health professionals maintain that all forms of asbestos are cancer-causing, and no level of exposure is safe.

Repairing asbestos requires encapsulation or enclosure. Encapsulation involves applying a sealant to asbestos materials to prevent the release of fibers. Enclosure covers the asbestos with airtight materials to contain the fibers and prevent their release.

The U.S. federal government enforces strict asbestos removal guidelines. Licensed professionals take training courses and follow specific steps:

• Seal off the work area with plastic sheeting to prevent fibers from spreading.
• Run HEPA air filters and clean air exhaust ducts to clean the air within and outside the work area.
• Wear protective suits and respirators while removing asbestos.
• Inspect the area throughout the process to ensure complete removal.
• Place asbestos materials in labeled, double plastic bags.

Once removal is complete, the remediation team thoroughly cleans the area with HEPA vacuums and wipes it down. Asbestos materials must be sealed and taken to an approved disposal site. They are labeled as toxic, hazardous waste to ensure safe handling. Proper disposal prevents further health hazards and ensures the asbestos materials are undisturbed.