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The dangers of asbestos
By Jeff Lakie
If you read the newspaper or watch the nightly news, chances are
you've heard about some of the dangers of asbestos. What is often
ignored in these messages, however, is that asbestos also has a
number of useful properties. If used responsibly and maintained in
good condition, asbestos can be beneficial without causing harm.
What is asbestos? The term refers to microscopic, naturally occurring
fibrous silicate minerals. These minerals have been used for years by
the construction industry. The three most common types of asbestos
are chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. Asbestos is commonly used in
insulation, fireproofing, roofing, flooring, and other building materials.
The strength of the fibers and asbestos's resistance to heat make these
materials very useful.
Why, then, are people afraid of asbestos? Well, asbestos is a
carcinogenic, toxic substance. Asbestos-containing materials are not a
health risk if they are left undisturbed. However, if these materials
become damaged, the asbestos fibers separate and become airborne.
This is when human exposure is likely to occur, as asbestos may be
inhaled into the lungs.
While no ¡°safe level¡± of exposure has been determined, health
problems are more common with greater and longer exposure to the
fibers. Some of these health problems include asbestosis,
mesothelioma, and lung cancer. It is not true that asbestos causes
headaches or sore muscles, as many once believed. Immediate health
issues like these are rarely seen. In actuality, most damaging health
effects of asbestos exposure don't surface until many years later.
Perhaps this is why building buyers prefer to err on the side of caution
when asbestos inspections are done.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed a
program for schools and other building owners in order to keep
asbestos fiber levels low. In an effort to protect students and residents,
the program aims to teach people how to recognize asbestos-
containing materials. It also educates people about how to manage
these materials and how to avoid exposure. With proper education
and careful management, health risks from asbestos can theoretically
be prevented.
About the Author
Jeff Lakie is the founder of Asbestos Resources a website providing information on asbestos
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/9537.html
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