The majority of what you’ve undoubtedly heard about asbestos has to do with workplaces. However, asbestos is still present in a variety
of products that we wouldn’t expect to have it. Over time, government authorities discovered that asbestos was linked to serious health
problems in people who were exposed to it. While people began to take the health risks of asbestos exposure more seriously in the late
1970s and early 1980s, those who were exposed are still living with the consequences.
What Is Asbestos and How Does It Affect You?
Asbestos is a term used to describe a collection of thin, needle-like mineral fibres found in rock and soil. There are six different kinds,
each of which is soft and flexible as well as heat, electricity, and corrosion resistant. It also serves as a good insulator. Asbestos is
suitable for usage in building materials and as a fire retardant because of these properties. Building materials, paper goods, car brakes
and clutches, and pipe insulation are all examples of where it has been employed.
What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is hazardous due to the same properties that make it useful. It’s difficult to tell if you’ve been exposed to asbestos since the
minuscule fibres can’t be smelled, tasted, or seen. Asbestos fibres become lodged in your body when you are exposed to it. These
filaments induce inflammation, scarring, and genetic damage to the body’s cells over time. Asbestos may cause a variety of ailments and
disorders, some of which are difficult to treat. Mineral fibres are now recognised as a health threat and are regulated by both OSHA and
the EPA as a result.
While there is no such thing as a safe level of asbestos exposure, a single encounter is unlikely to create problems. When you’re exposed
to something on a frequent basis, for an extended period of time, or with a high level of concentration, issues might arise. Asbestos builds
up in your body with each exposure because it has no way to escape. There is now no way to undo the harm that has been done.
How Do You Get Asbestos Exposure?
It is well known that asbestos may be found in “ancient” buildings where it was once used. Due to the fact that asbestos is not outlawed in
the UK, you can still be exposed to it anywhere it is used. Asbestos may still be present in the following goods, including:
Fabrics that can withstand heat
Wood-burning stoves’ walls and floors
The adhesives used on vinyl floor tiles
Shingles for roofing and siding
Vermiculite-containing attic and wall insulation
Walls and ceilings with textured paint and patching chemicals.
Pipes that have been coated with a heat-resistant substance
Are you in danger?
The majority of asbestos-related illnesses are now observed in men over the age of 60. This is due to the fact that illnesses linked to
asbestos exposure take time to manifest. They do, however, usually trace back to occupational exposure in occupations dominated by
men. Construction, electrical, firefighting, military, mining, shipbuilding, and other occupations provide a significant risk of asbestos
exposure.
If your home was built before 1980, doing a renovation project on your home where demolition work is involved may expose you to
asbestos. Living in close proximity to asbestos-contaminated places might also put you in danger.
What Are Your Options for Self-Defense?
Avoiding asbestos exposure is the greatest method to protect yourself against asbestos-related illnesses. However, it may be hard to
avoid high-risk professions in the workplace. Nonetheless, restrictions have been put in place to assist. The Environmental Protection
Agency has been trying to safeguard Americans from the dangers of asbestos exposure, including restricting the use of certain asbestos-
containing goods and materials in the future.
At home, it would be a good idea to hire someone to do an asbestos check and remove any asbestos that is discovered. Other steps to
take in order to prevent being exposed include:
Creating a barrier around any remodelling work area with plastic sheets
When working, turning on air conditioners
During debris management, use a mask, disposable coveralls, and gloves.
When cleaning, use a HEPA filter.
Safely disposing of any trash that may include asbestos
Swift Asbestos Removal Can Help You Avoid Asbestos Exposure
Fortunately, incidences of asbestos-related illnesses are expected to decline in the future. This is due to the fact that the population that
was exposed to asbestos the most before knowledge and regulation rose has either already had difficulties or was never exposed enough
for them to develop. Asbestos will never be completely eradicated from our lives, but it will hopefully become less of a health hazard. We
now have a better understanding of the impacts and risks of the stuff we used to rely on so heavily.
We specialise in asbestos examinations and removal at Swift Asbestos Removal. For more than three decades, our licenced and insured
staff has worked with property owners in Scotland. Our certified crew works hard to protect your family’s health and safety. We aim to
make it as easy as possible for you and your loved ones to avoid asbestos exposure. If you think your house may contain asbestos, get a
free estimate now.
