Risks of Asbestos Exposure in the Home

Asbestos was once a very widely used material, known for being a cheap and easily obtained insulation material. Additionally, it was quite effective. It was used extensively during the industrial era, seeing significant use as early as 1856.

Asbestos was used in everything from military shipyards to cigarette filters to home construction. It was only during the mid to late 20^th century that the dangers of asbestos use became known. Unfortunately, this was after thousands of people across the world were exposed to this dangerous carcinogen.

Exposure to asbestos has been linked to numerous health problems, most notably mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a deadly type of cancer that affects the lining of the body’s internal organs. This disease currently has no cure and is extremely aggressive. In addition to mesothelioma, asbestos exposure has also been linked to lung cancer, asbestosis, and other respiratory diseases.

One of the main reasons that the dangers of asbestos exposure went undocumented for so long was that mesothelioma symptoms do not manifest for a considerable amount of time, often up to several decades. Because of this, it was difficult to determine the causal link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma.

Among those at the most risk for mesothelioma and other respiratory diseases due to asbestos exposure include military (particularly naval shipyard workers) and construction workers. However, as many homes and buildings were built using asbestos insulation, those outside the aforementioned occupations are also at a slight risk for asbestos exposure.

Asbestos did not see any serious limitation of its use until the 1970s. Because of this, even today, it is entirely possible to encounter asbestos while in the home.

There are several potential sources of asbestos in homes today, especially homes built prior to the 1970’s. Some of these sources include:

• Indoor Air – As many homes built in the years before the 1970’s likely contained asbestos at some point, fibers may still linger in certain areas. In addition to insulation, asbestos may be found in ceiling tiles, floor tiles, textured pain, and patching compounds. Asbestos fibers may be released into the air from any of these products. Even homes that have undergone asbestos abatement (removal) may contain trace amounts of asbestos fibers.
• Home Renovations -- Before conducting any major renovations to your home, be aware of the risk of asbestos exposure. If you are unsure if there is any asbestos in your home, do not take this risk. It is possible to have your home tested for asbestos, which should be done before any renovations take place. If asbestos is present, repairs should only be done by professionals.
• Drinking Water – Asbestos fibers have been found in some drinking water supplies. In homes where water passes through asbestos-containing pipes, there is a risk of the fibers entering the drinking water. Be aware of this danger and request information regarding the safety of your drinking water from your local water supplier.
• Garage Areas – Before the dangers of asbestos were fully known, many car parts were manufactured with asbestos. Those who work on older vehicles in their home may be at risk for inhaling asbestos fibers. Though some vehicle parts contain warning labels in regard to asbestos content, it is impossible to determine the presence of asbestos simply by looking at the part. Because of this, it is recommended that all mechanics, both professional and hobbyists, assume that all brake parts have asbestos-type shoes. Using a wet cloth to remove brake dust can help prevent asbestos fibers from becoming airborne.
• Outside Environmental Hazards – Mining towns and manufacturing plants often have a higher concentration of toxic materials, including asbestos. Simply using a door mat can prevent contaminated soil and asbestos fibers from being tracked into the home.
• Pets – It is entirely possible for asbestos fibers to be carried in animal fur. In areas with high levels of asbestos in the soil, it is possible for pets to track some of the fibers into the house. To prevent this, it is advisable to use a wet towel to wipe down pets prior to allowing them inside the house.

Asbestos is a very dangerous material and should be treated with great care. Many organizations around the world are working to completely ban asbestos use and to provide safer conditions for workers whose jobs are to remove the hazardous materials from homes.