Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals that are carcinogenic. When exposed to them over long periods of time, humans can develop a number of chronic respiratory ailments along with other diseases. Until the 1980s, the harmful effects of asbestos were not known and in the US at least, they were extensively used in manufacturing various products for consumer use. Even today, asbestos use is regulated and not banned.

Since there is a possibility that asbestos-laden materials still exist in your surroundings, like old buildings and the ground where you live, it is necessary to take precautions. The health hazards from asbestos exposure are substantial, so staying vigilant is the best course of action. Recognizing what asbestos looks like and knowing where traces of it can be found is the most crucial first step in securing yourself from its effects.

Where can asbestos be found?

Asbestos has unique physical properties, which makes it useful for certain products, and despite its harmful effects, it is still used in manufacturing processes under strict regulations. Common places where asbestos is used include roofing compounds for commercial properties that are asphaltic, mechanical parts that cause friction like clutches and brake shoes, and gaskets. Asbestos may also be found in other automotive parts, building materials, cement, electrical components, and insulation products. OSHA strictly regulates all uses of asbestos, and thankfully, there are no products that contain asbestos manufactured for the use of the general public.

How can asbestos enter the atmosphere?

There has been a long-standing debate about the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. Several lawsuits have been brought against corporations and individuals in this regard, and some plaintiffs have also won huge settlements. If you are a concerned party, you can hire the services of a legal representative who, depending on the case, can help you access money from bankrupt manufacturers as well. However, the pertinent question is how asbestos can still get into the air today.

Some of these instances include the following:

• Erosion of old asbestos-containing items like construction material or cement
• Wind, rain, and heat wear away asbestos-containing materials in the ground
• The process of crushing asbestos rocks
• During building demolitions and renovations, especially with old structures
• Accidentally spreading asbestos-laden soil on the ground in a garden or playground
• Coming in contact with products that contain asbestos, like talc or vermiculite
• Gardening in soil that contains asbestos
  
  

All these are pertinent examples of cases where asbestos exposure can occur, and therefore, it is important to be vigilant.

Avoiding asbestos exposure

The extent to which asbestos releases into the atmosphere after an accident or mishap can vary. It all depends on the location, intensity of activity, type of material in which asbestos is, overall weather and humidity, age, and other characteristics of the material. In order to make sure that asbestos exposure is avoided as much as possible, here are a few steps that people, in general, can take:

1.  For people who come directly in contact with asbestos

Since asbestos is still used in manufacturing processes, workers in the construction and automotive industries particularly can come in contact with this material. Although the responsibility falls on the organization to ensure their safety, individuals themselves should stay safe. In order to do this, they can take certain steps, like acquiring proper training about how to safely handle these materials. This allows them to learn the most appropriate ways to avoid extensive exposure to asbestos. Wearing adequate personal protective equipment is by far the most efficient step to take in this regard.

2.  For those who live in older constructions

Until a few decades ago, asbestos was still largely used in manufacturing processes. This means that the cement, roofing, and insulation in residences or other properties constructed during that period may still contain excessive amounts of asbestos. This poses a significant risk to people living and working in such buildings. If moving is an option, it is definitely one to consider, but where it is not, other steps can be taken. For starters, it is best to leave any insulation materials, ceilings, flooring, and siding installed between the 1950s and 1970s as is. Disturbing these can cause asbestos fibers to spread into the air.

Also, it is important not to touch any vermiculite attic insulation. However, if a problem like a leak or crack arises with these materials, it is best to take things seriously. Indeed, these materials are prone to degradation, especially when they’ve been around for almost 50 years. Contact the local administration, state environmental department, or a reliable asbestos removal company to remove these products effectively. You need to take extra care in hiring professionals who are certified and experienced in dealing with asbestos so that the remnants of these materials don’t remain a threat to you and your family.

3.  For families living in areas with natural asbestos reserves

Keeping yourself safe from asbestos when there is constant danger of fibers from these materials floating in the air nearby can be quite challenging. Still, there are ways to stay safe. Firstly, you need to rely on cleaning methods that involve water. Whether it is sweeping, dusting, or vacuuming, wear wet clothes. Also, it is crucial to get High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuums for your home as these are certified to get rid of asbestos fibers. Also, remove shoes before entering the house and closing windows on windy days.

When you are outside in such an area, always ensure you are wearing a mask as a precaution. While gardening or playing outside, ensure the garden soil is wet or damp. Also, use wet cleaning methods on the outside, like spray washing the driveway and patios instead of sweeping or vacuuming.

Conclusion

Asbestos is no ordinary mineral, and its dangers are quite substantial. This is why avoiding exposure to it for yourself and your loved ones is more than essential. In order to do this, you need to be knowledgeable about various aspects, like the places and materials in which asbestos exists, how it can be dispersed in the atmosphere, and the things you can do to avoid exposing your body to it. Undoubtedly, this requires massive additional efforts, but these steps are well worth keeping your family safe.