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

1. Although asbestos is hazardous, human risk of asbestos disease depends upon exposure.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. The EPA only requires asbestos removal in order to prevent significant public exposure to asbestos, such as during building renovation or demolition.
5. 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

• Asbestos NESHAP Form (28kb) - to be filled out by businesses within Bernalillo County
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Region 6
• If you have questions concerning asbestos or asbestos removal, call (505) 768-1972 or email aqd@cabq.gov .