Once celebrated as a “miracle material,” asbestos found its way into thousands of buildings throughout the 20th century. Fireproof, durable, and an excellent insulator, it seemed like a builder’s dream — until it became a health nightmare.
Despite the regulations and growing awareness, asbestos hasn’t gone away. If your building was constructed before the 1980s, there’s a good chance it still hides behind your walls, beneath floor tiles, or in your attic insulation — quietly waiting to be disturbed.
Why Older Buildings Still Pose a Risk
Although modern construction no longer relies on asbestos, the past lingers. Common materials like:
- Ceiling tiles
- Pipe and boiler insulation
- Roofing shingles
- Floor adhesives
- Cement board and siding can all contain asbestos — and they don’t advertise it.
The real danger? These materials don’t need to be broken to be harmful — they just need to age, crumble, or be disturbed during a renovation or repair. That’s when microscopic fibers can be released into the air and inhaled.
The Silent Health Risks
Asbestos doesn’t cause an immediate reaction — which is part of what makes it so dangerous. Inhaled fibers lodge deep in the lungs and can lead to:
- Asbestosis (scarring of lung tissue)
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure
Symptoms often don’t show up for 20–50 years after exposure. That’s why proactive detection and abatement are so important — you won’t know it’s a problem until it’s too late.
Isn’t Asbestos Banned?
Not completely. While many products were phased out or banned over the years, asbestos is still legally allowed in certain applications. Some imported construction materials may even contain trace amounts.
Even with the EPA and OSHA regulations in place, asbestos is still present in:
- Industrial facilities
- Schools
- Multi-unit housing
- Commercial buildings
- Older homes
The problem isn’t just that it’s still out there — it’s that most property owners don’t even know it.
Don’t DIY Your Asbestos Problem
It might be tempting to remove suspicious materials yourself — but that’s a dangerous shortcut. One wrong move can release thousands of invisible fibers into the air, turning a contained issue into a serious health hazard.
Unless it is your personal residence, only licensed professionals have the training, equipment, and legal authority to:
- Conduct certified testing
- Isolate contaminated areas
- Safely remove and dispose of asbestos materials
- Provide documentation and peace of mind
Attempting removal on your own risks exposure, contamination, and fines.
The Safer Path: Professional Inspection & Abatement
At Baxter Environmental Group, we specialize in identifying and removing asbestos-containing materials safely and responsibly. Our team is trained, certified, and fully equipped to:
- Inspect your property thoroughly
- Deliver clear reports on what we find
- Perform safe removal and compliant disposal
- Minimize disruption to your operations or home life
Whether you manage a school, oversee facilities, or own an older commercial property, we’re here to help you stay compliant, protect your people, and avoid costly surprises.
Don’t Guess. Get It Checked.
Asbestos is out of sight — but it shouldn’t be out of mind. If you’re planning renovations or simply unsure what’s behind your walls, now’s the time to schedule a professional asbestos inspection.
Contact Baxter Environmental Group today.
Your building may be aging — but your peace of mind shouldn’t have to.