Asbestos--What
Is It ?
Asbestos is a generic term for a group of minerals
known for their strength, flame and heat resistance, and seemingly
indestructible qualities.
Once considered a "miracle mineral," asbestos
was used for many years in building construction. It can be found
in many forms and places. Asbestos was used in boiler and pipe
insulation, plasters, floor tile, electrical insulation, and as
a fireproofing material on structural members in buildings. It
has also been sprayed on ceilings and walls as acoustic insulation.
Because of its indestructible qualities, asbestos
is harmful to the human body. The body cannot digest, break down,
or change asbestos; it can only attempt to encapsulate it with
scar tissue.
Several types of asbestos were banned by the
EPA in the mid-70's due to concern over the health effects (especially
cancer) associated with exposure to such materials. It
is important to remember that asbestos generally has been found
to be hazardous to humans only when it is inhaled into the lungs.
Asbestos occurs naturally as a fiber; individual
fibers are so small they are invisible to the naked eye. Most
asbestos is not hazardous in its original, undisturbed state;
only when it is disturbed does it release asbestos fibers.
Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases do not
occur soon after exposure. Those who are sick today because of
asbestos may have been exposed 20 to 40 years ago. Controlling
exposures now will prevent disease and suffering decades later. |