Asbestos, once hailed as a “miracle mineral,” was widely used in building materials throughout the 20th century for its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties, making it a common component in insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials, and cement products. However, despite its benefits, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers has been linked to serious health risks, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, leading to regulations in the late 20th century to limit its use. Yet, many older buildings, particularly those built before the 1980s, still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), posing a lingering health risk to occupants. If you suspect asbestos in your building, it’s crucial to have a professional survey conducted. Contact Baxter Environmental Group today to schedule an asbestos inspection and ensure the safety of your property.
The Ongoing Presence of Asbestos in Older Buildings
Asbestos was once a popular component in a wide range of construction materials due to its heat-resistant and insulating properties. Common building materials that still contain asbestos include floor tiles, ceiling tiles, insulation (especially in pipes and attics), roofing materials, and cement products. These materials were often used in homes, schools, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities, especially before the 1980s, when the dangers of asbestos exposure became widely recognized. Even though the use of asbestos has been banned or restricted in many applications, it can still be found in older buildings, particularly in hidden areas like walls, ceilings, and floors where renovations or disturbances could easily release harmful fibers into the air.
Despite the regulations in place today, older buildings remain a significant concern. Asbestos materials that have deteriorated over time or have been disturbed during renovations or repairs can release fine asbestos fibers into the air, putting anyone in the vicinity at risk. In many cases, these materials are not visible, making it difficult for property owners to detect asbestos without proper inspection. This means that even if you don’t see visible asbestos, it could still be present in your building, posing a serious health risk.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is linked to several severe and often fatal health conditions, particularly when asbestos fibers are inhaled over an extended period. The primary health risks include lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Lung cancer, one of the most common outcomes of prolonged exposure, occurs when asbestos fibers damage the lung tissue, leading to the growth of abnormal cells. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestosis, a chronic lung disease, results from the scarring of lung tissue due to asbestos fibers, leading to shortness of breath and reduced lung function.
What makes asbestos particularly dangerous is that the symptoms of these diseases often do not appear until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure. By the time individuals begin to show signs of illness, the damage to their lungs and other organs may already be irreversible. This long latency period is why it’s essential to address potential asbestos risks as soon as possible, especially in older buildings where asbestos-containing materials may still be present. Acting now to identify and safely remove asbestos can prevent long-term health issues and provide peace of mind for property owners, tenants, and workers.
Regulations and Oversight: Why Asbestos Isn’t Completely Gone
Over the past several decades, the U.S. government has implemented a series of regulations and bans aimed at reducing asbestos exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has played a key role in limiting the use of asbestos, particularly through measures like the 1989 rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which banned most asbestos-containing products. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) established guidelines to protect workers from exposure in the workplace. The EPA also enforces the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), requiring asbestos surveys in schools and public buildings before renovation or demolition.
Despite these efforts, asbestos is not fully banned in the U.S. and remains a significant concern. In fact, certain asbestos-containing products are still legally used and imported into the country. For example, asbestos is still allowed in some specific applications like roofing materials, cement pipes, and automotive products like brake linings and gaskets. Furthermore, in 2018, the EPA proposed a new rule allowing for the review and potential approval of new uses of asbestos, meaning it could still be introduced in certain products under specific circumstances. These loopholes and exceptions illustrate why asbestos remains a persistent threat, even as efforts to limit its use continue.
The Importance of Professional Asbestos Removal
While it may be tempting to attempt a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to asbestos removal to save costs, the dangers far outweigh any potential savings. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne when disturbed, posing significant health risks. Without proper training and equipment, DIY removers may unknowingly release these harmful fibers into the environment, endangering themselves, their families, or building occupants. Additionally, improper disposal of asbestos materials can lead to contamination and potential legal issues, as there are strict regulations governing the removal, transport, and disposal of asbestos waste. For these reasons, handling asbestos safely should always be left to professionals who are trained to manage these hazardous materials.
Hiring licensed professionals for asbestos testing, removal, and disposal ensures that the process is done safely, effectively, and in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Asbestos removal requires specialized equipment, such as HEPA filters and protective suits, and must be carried out with precise protocols to prevent contamination. Certified professionals also ensure that all asbestos waste is disposed of according to legal standards, minimizing the risk of future exposure. By hiring experts, you can protect the health of your property, workers, and community.
Protecting Your Property and Health from Asbestos Risks
Asbestos continues to be a significant health risk in many older buildings across the U.S. Despite regulations, asbestos-containing materials are still present in countless homes, schools, and commercial properties. If left undisturbed, these materials may not pose an immediate threat. However, renovations, repairs, or deterioration can release harmful asbestos fibers into the air, leading to serious health conditions such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. It’s critical to identify and safely remove asbestos before it becomes a danger.
Taking proactive steps to inspect and manage asbestos-containing materials in your building is essential for long-term health and safety. With the help of professional asbestos abatement services, you can ensure that your property complies with safety regulations and that any asbestos risks are mitigated.
Asbestos is still a threat in many buildings across the U.S. Don’t take chances—contact Baxter Environmental Group for a thorough asbestos inspection and safe removal solutions.