Asbestos Risks and Concerns

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals composed of thin, fibrous crystals. Due to its durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties, asbestos was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and various industries in the past. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can pose serious health risks. Asbestos-related diseases, such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, can develop years after inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers. If you are planning to remodel or disturb any of these materials we can help to identify if there are any areas of risk. By disturbing any possible asbestos there is a risk the fibers may become airborne resulting in contamination to the living areas. Once asbestos is in a friable state which means easily crumbled between your fingers it should be professionally abated.  Boiler wrap and vermiculite would be prime examples of friable asbestos, where as undisturbed transite siding and floor tiles would not be considered friable. When asbestos ducts are present cleaning is not recommended as asbestos dust may result from disturbing the surface of the duct.

Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. While its use has significantly decreased over the years, many homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Common areas where asbestos might be found in homes include:

• Ceiling Tiles:
  • Older ceiling tiles may contain asbestos. Popcorn or textured ceiling finishes are also potential sources
• Flooring:
  • Some floor tiles especially 9x9 floor tiles and the adhesive used to install them may contain asbestos. Some older types of linoleum and the backing of certain carpets may also contain asbestos.
• Insulation:
  • Asbestos was commonly used as insulation in attics, walls, and around heating ducts including some slag or rock wool. Vermiculite insulation, in particular, may contain asbestos.
• Roofing Materials:
  • Asbestos may be present in roofing shingles, felt, mastic and flashing.
• Siding:
  • Asbestos-containing materials were used in certain types of siding, such as cement siding boards.
• Textured Paints and Coatings:
  • Some textured paints and coatings applied to walls and ceilings contained asbestos such as popcorn textures on ceilings.
• Pipe Insulation:
  • Asbestos insulation was frequently used on heating pipe, boilers and water pipes.
• HVAC Systems:
  • Components of heating and air conditioning systems, including duct connectors, insulation, heat shields above vent pipes, vents pipes, duct tape, duct canvas, transite ducts in slabs all may contain asbestos.
• Caulking and Putty:
  • Asbestos-containing caulking and putty were used in some older homes.
• Electrical Panels and wiring:
  • Asbestos may be found in the insulation surrounding wiring in older electrical panels and some wire insulation and sheathing.
• Fireplaces and Wood-Burning Stoves:
  • Some older fireproof materials, such as stove gaskets and insulation, may contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in various construction materials, including plaster and drywall, particularly in buildings constructed before the 1980s. Here are some areas where asbestos might be found in plaster and drywall: Some contemporary fireplaces also use vermiculite as a simulated ember area.
    
• Textured or Decorative Plaster:
  • Some textured or decorative plasters used on walls and ceilings contained asbestos.
• Plasterboard and Lath: Asbestos may be present in the backing board or lath behind plaster walls.
  
• Drywall Joint Compound:
  Taping and Joint Compound:
  • Asbestos was commonly used in joint compound and taping materials applied to seams between sheets of drywall.
• Texture Coatings:
  • Some texture coatings applied to drywall surfaces may contain asbestos.
• Wall and Ceiling Coverings:
  • When asbestos-containing plaster or drywall is in good condition and undisturbed, it typically does not pose a health risk. However, if these materials are damaged, deteriorating, or if there is a need for renovation or demolition work, it can lead to the release of asbestos fibers into the air.

Here are some precautions and steps to take if you suspect asbestos in plaster or drywall:

• Professional Assessment:
  • Consult with professionals who are trained in asbestos identification and removal to assess the presence of asbestos in your plaster or drywall.
• Testing:
  • If asbestos is suspected, testing can be conducted to confirm its presence.
• Avoid Disturbance:
  • Do not disturb or damage materials suspected of containing asbestos. Asbestos fibers are most dangerous when airborne.
• Professional Removal:
  • If removal is necessary, hire licensed and trained asbestos removal professionals. They have the expertise and equipment to handle asbestos safely.
• Safe Work Practices:
  • If work is being done in areas with potential asbestos-containing materials, follow safe work practices, including wetting the materials to minimize fiber release and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Encapsulation or Enclosure:
  • In some cases, encapsulation (sealing the material) or enclosure (covering the material) may be options instead of removal.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  • Adhere to local regulations and guidelines regarding asbestos management and removal.

It's essential to approach any suspected asbestos-containing materials with caution and seek professional guidance. If you're planning renovations or if you suspect the presence of asbestos in your home, consult with asbestos professionals to ensure the safety of yourself and others in the vicinity.

Here are some key points regarding asbestos risks and precautions:

Risks:

• Respiratory Issues:
  Inhalation of asbestos fibers is the primary route of exposure.
• The fibers are microscopic and can remain airborne for long periods, making it easy to inhale.
  Asbestos-Related Diseases:
• Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure can lead to lung cancer.
• Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition caused by the scarring of lung tissue due to asbestos fibers.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
• Occupational Exposure:
  Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and asbestos mining are at higher risk.
  Secondary exposure can occur when family members are exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on work clothes.

Asbestos Precautions:

• Identification and Assessment:
• Identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings through inspections and testing by trained professionals.
  • Assume materials contain asbestos if they were installed before the 1990s, when its use declined.
• Professional Removal:
• Do not attempt to remove asbestos yourself. Disturbing asbestos without proper precautions can release fibers into the air.
  • Hire licensed and trained professionals for asbestos removal and abatement.
• Encapsulation and Enclosure:
  • If removal is not possible, consider encapsulating or enclosing asbestos-containing materials to prevent fiber release.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Wear appropriate PPE, such as respirators, disposable coveralls, and gloves, when working with or near asbestos.
• Work Area Isolation:
  • Isolate the work area to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.
  • Use barriers and warning signs to limit access.
• Safe Work Practices:
• Wet methods: Keep asbestos-containing materials wet to minimize fiber release.
  • Avoid abrasive activities that can release fibers into the air.
• Training and Awareness:
• Provide training for workers who may come into contact with asbestos.
  • Increase awareness about the risks of asbestos exposure.
• Regular Health Monitoring:
  • Workers with potential asbestos exposure should undergo regular health check-ups to detect any early signs of asbestos-related diseases.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
  • Adhere to local regulations and guidelines regarding asbestos management and removal.
• Environmental Protection:
  • Properly dispose of asbestos waste according to regulations.
  • Prevent contamination of soil and water sources.
  • It's crucial to approach asbestos cautiously and follow established safety procedures to minimize health risks. If you suspect asbestos in your environment, consult with asbestos professionals for proper assessment and management.

Showalter Property Consultants offer surface, bulk and air sampling for asbestos throughout the Maryland area.
Call today! 410-570-6430