Asbestos is a natural occurrence. The material consists of fibrous silicate minerals, and is known for its outstanding properties related to incombustibility, durability, thermal stability and flexibility. While asbestos products were still produced in large margins, numerous types of asbestos fibers were added to strengthen other products - such as cement, for instance - to make them heat and fire resistant.

Asbestos Exposure and Health Impacts

Most of us are exposed to very small concentrations of asbestos in our day to day lives, however will not develop any related health problems. A problem occurs, though, when asbestos gets disturbed and releases toxic particles into the air, which then might get inhaled or ingested. This can happen as the asbestos containing material is being handled during demolition work, home or building maintenance, repair or remodeling projects. As the harmful asbestos fibers start to lodge in the lungs, the affected person is at an increased health risk. We all had to learn what regular and intense asbestos exposure can do to a person, who gets in contact with the material on his job. Asbestos induced diseases include: lung cancer, mesothelioma - which is a cancer that affect the lining of the lungs and other organs - and asbestosis, which is chronic condition where scar tissue is building up inside and on the lungs. There is an evident correlation between the amount and intensity of the exposure, and the risk of a person contracting and asbestos related disease. In other words, the risk of developing lung cancer or mesothelioma increases proportionally to the amount of fibers inhaled. The risk is even significantly greater for smokers.

Asbestos Disposal

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has rules and regulations pertaining to the abatement and asbestos disposal from public or private constructions, involving any kind of demolition, repair, renovation and maintenance activities. The EPA also certifies and issues licenses to trained asbestos removal contractors.
It is advisable to make an appointment with an EPA certified abatement company to discuss the next steps in order to dispose old asbestos containing materials properly. Asbestos cannot be disposed along with the regular garbage. Therefore, if a reputable asbestos contractor is being hired, he can take care of the task and ensure a safe asbestos disposal. If you are concerned about costs, ask for a free estimate before you give the OK for the job.