Asbestos Information

What is the history of asbestos?

It was the greatest thing! A naturally occuring substance in fibrous form that was nonflammable, very stong and easy to manipulate. It was widely used for fireproofing, soundproofing, insulating, brake pad lining and more. It was woven into material for firefighters, molded into building materials and sprayed into surfaces.

So, why is it no longer used?

Asbestos is a carcinogen! People who worked with it started to develop lung problems, including lung cancer. It turned out that when the small, sharp fibers were inhaled, they had the effect of little knives and daggers on the lungs and within the chest cavity! Not a good thing.

The EPA began banning the use of asbestos beginning in the 1970s. It is a hazard because much of it is still around and as time goes by it gets older and degenerates into a friable, breathable condition.

Where might you find asbestos in your home?

Common places include on the furnace and ductwork, wall insulation, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, ceilings, roofing materials, vinyl floor tiles and the backing of linoleum.

Asbestos is not always a health hazard

If you cannot inhale it, it cannot hurt you! If asbestos is in poor condition and friable (meaning fibers can be released if disturbed) it can be a serious health hazard.

Not all materials appearing fibrous in nature are asbestos

Some materials are harmless, The only way to identify asbestos is laboratory analysis. Saulsbury Environmental uses polarized light microscopy to ascertain whether a material is in fact asbestos, as well as the type of asbestos (some types of asbestos are more harmful than others.

Saulsbury Environmental will sample suspect materials and issue a report concerning the amount and condition of materials, in addition to providing recommendations.

If a material contains asbestos, and you must disturb it, handle it very carefully! Special precautions must be taken during removal of exposed or damaged asbestos containing material, such as wetting the material, wet-mopping dust, sealing off the work area, and using an approved respirator. If possible, find a qualified abatement contractor trained in safe procedures for handling asbestos.

Protect Your Family, Order an Asbestos Inspection Today!