Asbestos, what is it?

Asbestos is a mineral fibre that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant.  Asbestos has been completely banned within the construction industry since 1999.  Manufacturers have also voluntarily limited uses of asbestos. Today, asbestos is most commonly found in older buildings, in pipe and boiler insulation materials, asbestos cement roofs, millboard, floor tiles,  textured paints and other coating materials.

Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur after asbestos-containing materials are disturbed by cutting, sanding or other refurbishment activities. Improper attempts to remove these materials can release asbestos fibres into the air in homes and workplaces, increasing asbestos levels and endangering people living and working in those premises.

The most dangerous asbestos fibres are too small to be visible. After they are inhaled, they can remain and accumulate in the lungs. Asbestos can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma (a cancer of the chest and abdominal linings), and asbestosis (irreversible lung scarring that can be fatal). Symptoms of these diseases do not show up until many years after exposure began. Most people with asbestos-related diseases were exposed to elevated concentrations on the job; some developed disease from exposure to clothing and equipment brought home from job sites.

Levels in Homes

Elevated levels can occur in homes where asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed.

Steps to Reduce Exposure

• It is best to leave undamaged asbestos material alone if it is not likely to be disturbed.
• Use trained and qualified contractors for control measures that may disturb asbestos and for cleanup.

If you think your home may have asbestos, don't panic!

Usually it is best to leave asbestos material that is in good condition alone. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibres. There is no danger unless fibres are released and inhaled into the lungs.

Do not cut, rip, or sand asbestos-containing materials.

Leave undamaged materials alone and, to the extent possible, prevent them from being damaged, disturbed, or touched. Periodically inspect for damage or deterioration. Discard damaged or worn asbestos gloves, stove-top pads, or ironing board covers. Check with local health, environmental, or other appropriate officials to find out about proper handling and disposal procedures. If asbestos material is more than slightly damaged, or if you are going to make changes in your home that might disturb it, repair or removal by a professional is needed. Before you have your house refurbished, find out via asbestos surveying and bulk sampling whether asbestos materials are present.