Asbestos is a mineral fiber that, in the past, was used to offer insulation and resistance from heat and corrosion majorly. Persistent, long-term exposure to asbestos has health risks that put you and your loved ones in danger. Studies prove that people exposed to the fibers in factories and dockyards are at high risk of lung cancer and other respiratory complications.
Did you know that around 39,000 American lives are lost to asbestos-related illnesses yearly? Most of these lives are individuals who had first-hand exposure to asbestos. They include construction workers, manufacturers, plumbers, miners, firefighters, and other general industries, among others. It is a toxic mineral whose exposure has caused the most work-related deaths globally.
Hundreds of products are still made using asbestos, guaranteed the mineral makes up less than one percent of the product. So, when does asbestos exposure prove to be fatal?
Is Asbestos in Your Home Unsafe?As per The U.S. Census Bureau's 2019 American Community Survey, nearly 12% of homes were erected before 1940. Subsequently, approximately 50% of the houses were built before 1980 -– the unofficial distinction line splitting asbestos's uttermost usage and phasing out.
This data means that most homes have asbestos-containing steam pipes, floor tiles, furnace ducts, door gaskets, sun proofing, shingles, etc. Mostly, the mineral is not deadly if in good condition as it will not release the fibers.
If your home was built between 1930-1970 or you have never checked the level of asbestos in your home, it is about time you hire professional
asbestos inspection
services. Otherwise, you could have hazardous mineral fibers in your home and not even know it.
Health risks related to the mineral fibers are directly proportional to the period and extremity of the exposure. Short-term cases involve a few days of contact (rarely causing illnesses), whereas long-term exposure means working or living in a toxic environment for years. In addition, disasters like explosions and bombings may cause extreme exposure, hence related threats.
Asbestos AbatementWhenever you are not sure about asbestos exposure in your home, always hire a reputable company for asbestos inspection –- better safe than sorry.
Exposure can happen in ways like: - Drilling your drywall
- DIY remodeling projects
- Removing vinyl floor tiles
- Replacing old pipes, cutting insulation, and plumbing
- Attic and ceiling renovation
- Repainting walls
Always remember that it's only an accredited expert who should perform asbestos removal and disposal. Since there are state and federal laws regarding the toxic mineral, doing it yourself is wrong and precarious. During this process, your contractor will handle asbestos inspection, removal, and safe disposal.
Before renovations and demolitions of homes and commercial spaces, always contact a certified pro for asbestos inspection. It is a plus if the same company can perform a mold inspection and lead inspection. They should get rid of all toxic materials and dispose of them without harm.
Time to Take Steps Towards Safe Asbestos RemovalAll factors considered, you must keep your family safe from asbestos exposure. To do this, ensure you hire an asbestos inspection company to conduct a professional asbestos inspection, abatement, and disposal. Otherwise, you risk contracting asbestos-related illnesses like cancer (lung, ovarian, esophageal, kidney), mesothelioma, asbestosis, and many more.
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