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ASBESTOS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Are all products with asbestos a health risk for the consumer?
A: No. A health risk exists only when asbestos fibers are released from the material or product. Soft, easily crumbled
asbestos-containing material has the greatest potential for asbestos release and therefore has the greatest potential to create
health risks.
Q: Where is asbestos used in the home?
A: Asbestos has been used in a wide variety
of products, including household and building materials, such as appliances, ceilings, wall and pipe coverings, floor tiles,
and some roofing materials. Basically, asbestos has been used in products for four reasons: (1) to strengthen the product
material: (2) for thermal insulation within a product: (3) for thermal or acoustical insulation or decoration on exposed
surfaces: and (4) for fire protection.
Q: How can I tell if I have asbestos in my home?
A: The
manufacturer of a product may be able to tell you, based on the model number and age of the product, whether or not the product
contains asbestos. People who have frequently worked with asbestos (such as plumbers, building contractors, or heating contractors)
often are able to make a reasonable judgment about whether or not a material contains asbestos based on a visual inspection.
Q: If I find asbestos in my home, what should I do?
A: In most cases, asbestos-containing materials
are best left alone. When it is necessary to use or work with asbestos-containing materials, reduce you exposure to fibers
as much as possible. If at all possible, get help from a contractor who is trained and experienced in working with asbestos.
Q: What are some of the products in the home that may contain asbestos?
A: Here is a list of
some of the products that may contain asbestos
- Vinyl asbestos floor tiles: These are generally 9 inch tiles and the asbestos can be released if the tiles
are sanded or seriously damaged. The tiles should be handled as little as possible. A safe and recommended alternative
is to place a new flooring material directly over the old tiles.
- Popcorn
ceilings: Some homes built or remodeled before 1978 may contain a crumbly, asbestos-containing material which has been
either sprayed or troweled on the ceiling or walls. If the material is in good condition, it is best to leave it alone.
- Pipe insulation: Hot water and steam pipes in some older homes may be covered
with an asbestos-containing material. Pipes may also be wrapped in an asbestos blanket or asbestos paper tape. If you have
damaged insulation around pipes or boilers, the best current recommendation is to leave the insulation in place and repair
the protective covering.
- Roofing, shingles and siding:
Since these products are already in place and outdoors, there is likely to be little risk to human health.
Q: What do I do if I think a material contains asbestos?
A: Handle
it carefully. If possible, find a contractor trained in safe procedures for handling asbestos. Do not dust, sweep, or vacuum
particles suspected of containing asbestos. Remember, removal of the material that you think contains asbestos is usually
the last alternative. Seal off the work area from the rest of the residence and always wear an approved respirator.
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