Asbestos Facts

A friable product is one that can actually be crumbled to dust. Friable asbestos items have been compared to a piece of cake that could be crumbled. Fibers would be released and inhalation of those fibers would be likely.

A non-friable asbestos-containing item would include fibers that are locked into a bonded matrix surface. The fibers could be glued in, for example, but can become airborne. With both friable and non-friable asbestos, inhalation of fibers is likely.

In the United States, however, any item that has less than 1% asbestos is considered asbestos-free. Therefore, asbestos-containing materials (ACM) can still be brought into the United States.

Everywhere. In 1970s construction, for example, bathrooms and kitchens were filled with materials that contained asbestos. Certain golf-ball dimpled drywall-type wall sheeting sometimes contained asbestos. Vinyl floors might be asbestos-encased, and sprayed loose asbestos could be found as it was used for insulation between walls.

Cement water pipes containing asbestos were commonly used. Asbestos-containing water pipes would probably not be a health issue for the casual water drinker. If, however, work needed to be done to fix a hole in a pipe or repair a broken pipe, workers would have to take precautions against asbestos exposure.

Asbestos was actually used in cigarette filters; smokers would get a substantial asbestos fiber dose just by lighting up. Fake snow--a 1950s and 1969s creation--was made with loose asbestos particles. This fake snow was also used in the Wizard of Oz movie.

Ironing boards and insulation used in irons contained asbestos. At one time, asbestos was touted as a great bedding material. Most strikingly, asbestos was woven into baby clothes as its flame retardance supposedly could keep a baby from catching fire.

Many old-school paints contained asbestos, and Ipana toothpaste, an old-time favorite toothpaste product, utilized asbestos for abrasive properties that would help turn teeth whiter.

Asbestos exposure issues occur when asbestos fibers get into the air, but if items like old pipe insulation were left undisturbed, for example, risks could be mitigated.

If you are worried about asbestos in your home or workplace, you need to contact a qualified mesothelioma attorney like the Throneberry Law Group. The Throneberry Law Group provides aggressive and compassionate support and representation for asbestos cancer victims. Call the experienced attorneys today at (888) 506-1131, or visit them online for 24/7 assistance.