| What is Asbestos?
---The Toxic Substances Control Act describes asbestos as
“the asbestiform varieties of: chrysotile (serpentine); crocidolite
(riebeckite); amosite (cummingtonite/grunerite); anthophyllite; tremolite; and
actinolite.” They are naturally occurring fibrous materials that have been
commonly used in many building construction materials for insulation, and as a
fire-retardant.
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Common Sources of Asbestos:
---Due to their heat-resistance and strength, asbestos fibers have been used in many products. Most of these are materials used in heat & acoustic insulation, fire proofing, and roofing & flooring. In 1989, the EPA identified asbestos product categories. The list can be found on the EPA website.
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Why Should You Be
Concerned?
---When Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM) become
damaged or disturbed by repair, renovation or demolition, microscopic fibers
can become airborne and are inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause health
problems including Asbestosis, Lung Cancer, or Mesothelioma.
Asbestosis: A serious,
progressive and long-term non-cancer disease of the lungs that is caused by the
inhalation of asbestos fibers. These fibers irritate lung tissue; causing
scarring that makes it hard for oxygen to get into the blood. There is no
effective treatment for asbestosis.
Lung Cancer: The largest number
of deaths related to asbestos exposure is caused by lung cancer. People who
work closely with asbestos and ACM are more likely to develop lung cancer than
the general population, especially those that also smoke.
Mesothelioma: A rare form
of lung cancer. Almost all cases are linked to asbestos exposure. This disease
can show up many years after the initial exposure to asbestos, which is why
great efforts are being made to prevent school children from being exposed.
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What do do if asbestos is found in your home.
---The first thing you should do if you notice asbestos
in your home is to determine what condition the fibers are in.
Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM) that are in good condition should be left
alone, since the only damaged fibers pose a threat to your health. If you do
find damaged ACM, you should immediately isolate the area, refrain from further
disturbing the material, and contact an asbestos professional for consultation.
If you are unsure what condition the ACM is in, contact WISE (or other professional asbestos inspector) to sample and test
the material. ACM does not necessarily need to be removed from your home, but
it may be repaired by an asbestos professional through encapsulation or
enclosure. Complete removal of asbestos is often unnecessary. Contact WISE at (775) 827-2717 for
more information on an asbestos consultation for your home.
| What is the
Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act?
---In 1986, the AHERA was signed into law. This Act
requires public and private non-profit
primary and secondary schools to inspect their buildings for Asbestos-Containing Building Materials (ACBM). The EPA requires these schools to have an Asbestos Management Plan in place to ensure that all ACBM remains in good condition, and is removed only to prevent significant exposure during renovation or demolition. WISE employs certified Management Planners to assist schools in developing and maintaining an Asbestos Management Plan in accordance with the AHERA. For more information on AHERA Asbestos Management Plans for Local Education Agencies, visit the EPA website or contact WISE at (775) 827-2717.
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Pleuralmesothelioma.com has the most up to date and
comprehensive information about Pleural Mesothelioma
and asbestos exposure related cancer on the web today. Such as Mesothelioma
Life Span and information ranging from a complete list of
symptoms, to treatment options, and steps to take after a diagnosis.
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