Asbestos
Asbestos
is a mineral composed of silicon, oxygen, hydrogen, and various
metal cations (positively charged metal ions). Unlike most minerals,
which turn into dust particles when crushed, asbestos breaks up
into fine fibers that are too small to be seen by the human eye.
Often individual fibers are mixed with a material that binds them
together, producing asbestos containing material (ACM).
Asbestos Facts
- Although asbestos is
hazardous, human risk of asbestos disease depends upon exposure.
- Prevailing asbestos
levels in buildings -- the levels average occupants face -- seem
to be very low, based upon available data. Accordingly, the health
risk faced by building occupants also appears to be very low.
- Removal is often not
a building owner's best course of action to reduce asbestos exposure.
In fact, an improper removal can create a dangerous situation where
none previously existed.
- The EPA only requires
asbestos removal in order to prevent significant public exposure
to asbestos, such as during building renovation or demolition.
- The EPA does recommend
in-place management whenever asbestos is discovered. Instead of
removal, a conscientious in-place management program will usually
control fiber releases, particularly when the materials are not
significantly damaged and are not likely to be disturbed.
More Information About Asbestos