What is Asbestos?
Asbestos Definition
Asbestos is a natural fibrous mineral used to make numerous products, particularly between the 1920s and 1970s, which can present a hazard to human health.
Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals composed of long, thin fibrous crystals. Due to its heat-resistant properties, it was commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement.
History of Asbestos
Asbestos was once hailed as a miracle material for its durability and resistance to heat and chemicals. However, its use has left a legacy of health concerns and safety challenges in homes around the world. If your home was built or renovated before the 1980s, it’s possible that asbestos-containing materials were used in its construction.
Asbestos in the Home
Identifying asbestos containing material (ACM) in your home can be challenging, as it’s often mixed with other materials. Common places where asbestos may be found include:
- Insulation in walls and attics
- Vinyl floor tiles and the backing on vinyl sheet flooring
- Roofing and siding shingles
- Textured paint and patching compounds used on walls and ceilings
- Hot water and steam pipes coated with asbestos material or covered with an asbestos blanket or tape
Health Risks of Asbestos
When asbestos fibers become airborne, they can be inhaled, leading to serious health issues. Asbestos exposure is linked to several diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural thickening. These conditions often take years to develop and can be life-threatening.
Asbestos in Soils
As part of our contaminated land environmental planning services we assess asbestos risk in soils. Learn more by clicking here.
Building Compliance Testing
Building Compliance Testing does not provide air testing of asbestos or ACM testing of construction materials. To learn more visit UKATA’s directory.