Asbestos: What is it?
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been mined and used by people as far back as ancient Greece and China. Because of its malleability, fire resistance and cost effectiveness asbestos was used in numerous products, especially construction materials in almost every building built until the early eighties. By the 1970’s research, as well as empirical evidence, had proven that inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers caused two main terminal lung cancers mesothelioma and asbestosis, and thus asbestos was banned from most manufactured materials.
Where can it be found?
Some of the materials that often contain asbestos are hot water boilers and insulating pipes, vermiculite in attics, paper on duct work, ceiling and floor tiles and drywall compound. (Please see our photo gallery for examples). With asbestos being so pervasive in the buildings we inhabit and use in our daily lives many people often wonder where it is and if it will affect their health.
What can be done about it?
Leave it alone. If undisturbed, asbestos is relatively safe. However, if the material is in poor deteriorated condition or might be disturbed by renovation and other daily living tasks it may be best to remove the asbestos. A professional asbestos removal contractor can explain your options. If removal is the best option only MTCU (Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities) certified workers should perform this work.