What is Asbestos and How Do You Protect Yourself?

People breathe thousands of chemicals into their lungs daily without even realizing it. Normally, someone only notices what they breathe if it has a strong odor or smell. But just because you may not smell something doesn’t mean you don’t need to be careful. There are many substances that people should be aware of to protect their health. One of these is asbestos.

This article will go into what asbestos exists, how to avoid it, and what to do if exposed. 

Understanding Asbestos

Asbestos is a group of minerals used for thousands of years due to their unique properties. These minerals are known for their heat, fire, and electricity resistance, making them valuable in many different industries. 

Asbestos is strong, flexible, and resistant to chemical damage, making it attractive for insulation, construction materials, and automotive parts. Before recent health discoveries, the negative side of asbestos was insignificant, meaning it was being used almost everywhere.

Historical Use of Asbestos

The use of asbestos dates back to ancient times, when its heat-resistant properties made it perfect for creating fireproof textiles and pottery. However, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, asbestos gained widespread popularity with industrial use, particularly in construction. Its affordability and exceptional insulation properties made it a popular choice for roofing, insulation, and other building materials.

Asbestos Health Risks

While asbestos seemed like the perfect material due to its many practical applications and large amounts, its hidden danger lies in its microscopic fibers. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, these tiny fibers can be released into the air and inhaled. Over time, this exposure can lead to serious health problems, including:

  1. Asbestosis: Asbestos fibers can cause scarring in the lungs, a condition known as asbestosis. This scarring reduces lung capabilities, leading to difficulty in breathing, coughing, and chest pain.
  2. Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Unfortunately, lung cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer.
  3. Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting the lungs, abdomen, or heart lining. It’s almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure, and its prognosis is often poor; however, it’s curable if caught early.

How to Avoid Asbestos

Avoiding asbestos is a shared responsibility between individuals, businesses, and governments. 

Here are some steps you can take to minimize your risk of asbestos exposure:

  1. Identify Asbestos-Containing Materials: Identify and label any asbestos-containing materials if you live or work in an older building. These materials should be professionally assessed and removed by trained experts. Don’t assume it has already been checked because it can be a costly mistake.
  2. Do Not Disturb Suspected Asbestos: If you suspect an area may contain asbestos, do not attempt to handle or remove it yourself. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release dangerous fibers into the air. Instead, contact professionals experienced in asbestos removal.
  3. Follow Safety Guidelines: If you work in an industry where asbestos exposure is risky, follow strict safety guidelines. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, receive proper training, and adhere to regulations protecting workers from asbestos exposure. Just because you can’t see the dangerous asbestos doesn’t mean they aren’t present. 
  4. Advocate for Awareness: Raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos in your community. Encourage local authorities to inspect and regulate older buildings, schools, and public spaces to ensure they are asbestos-free. This is particularly true if it’s in an area that is older and may not have been inspected for a while.

Concluding remark on What is Asbestos and How Do You Protect Yourself

Asbestos may not be as common as in the past, but it’s still out there. By knowing what purpose it served, its history, and where you may find it, you can be more aware of what to look out for. 

Taking the extra steps to ensure that you aren’t working or living in an area with this dangerous substance may save your life.

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