What is Asbestos?

The term "asbestos" describes six naturally occuring fibrous minerals found in certain types of rock formations. It is a mineral compound of silicon, oxygen, hydrogen, and various metal cations. Of the six types, the minerals chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite have been most commonly used in building products. When mined and processed, asbestos is typically separated into very thin fibers. When these fibers are present in the air, they are normally invisible to the naked eye. Asbestos fibers are commonly mixed during processing with a material which binds them together so that they can be used in many different products. Because these fibers are so small and light, they may remain in the air for many hours if they are released from the asbestos containing material (ACM) in a building.

Asbestos

Asbestos became a popular commercial product to manufacturers and builders in the early 1900's to the 1970's. Asbestos is durable, fire retardant, resists corrosion, and insulates well. It is estimated that 3,000 different types of commercial products contain some amount of asbestos. The use of asbestos ranges from paper products and brake linings to floor tiles and thermal insulation.

Intact and undisturbed (ACM) does not pose a health risk. Asbestos becomes a problem when, due to damage, disturbance, or deterioration over time, the material releases fibers into the air.

Asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems. If inhaled, these tiny fibers can impair normal lung functions, and increase the risk of developing lung cancer, mesothelioma, or asbestosis. It could take anywhere from 20 to 30 years after the first exposure for symptoms to occur. Severe health problems from exposure have been experienced by workers who held jobs in industries such as shipbuilding, mining, milling, and fabricating.