Articles Posted in Asbestos

Asbestos, a mineral that was used extensively throughout much of the 20^th century, can cause aggressive and fatal illnesses like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. While the use of asbestos has virtually been eliminated, this substance remains a huge threat to this day. Legacy asbestos, which refers to asbestos-containing materials that were installed in buildings, structures, or products before the dangers of asbestos became widely known, poses ongoing risks if disturbed or damaged. Because of the threat posed by asbestos, detecting the presence of this substance is crucial.

For a long time, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been the go-to method for detecting asbestos in schools, factories, and other buildings. To test for asbestos in buildings, inspectors have had to collect samples from the buildings and submit them to a specialized lab with highly trained staff for examination using TEM. Some states require or recommend using TEM for asbestos testing during the removal process in commercial properties.

However, transmission electron microscopy is complex and can be expensive. Another method that can be used to test for asbestos is phase contrast microscopy. This method is less costly and easier than TEM but less accurate. Now, researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) say they have found a better way of detecting asbestos. NIST researchers Jason Holm and Elisabeth Mansfield say scanning electron microscopy (SEM) can be a suitable substitute for TEM in asbestos testing. The researchers say that SEM can produce results comparable to TEM. SEM, which is cheaper and more convenient than TEM, could speed up and reduce the expenses associated with asbestos remediation in the U.S.

Asbestos was once widely used in the construction industry because of its fire-resistant and insulation properties. After the dangers of this material became widely known, its use was limited. The use of asbestos has been regulated in the United States of America since the early 1970s. However, because many buildings built before the 1980s were constructed using asbestos-contaminated materials, it is common for asbestos to still be present in buildings, including school buildings. The issue is that if asbestos remains undetected in a school building, it may be accidentally disturbed. Asbestos is harmless if left undisturbed. However, if disturbed, it can result in tiny microscopic fibers being released into the air, which, when inhaled or ingested, can cause serious health issues. If no one knows of the existence of asbestos in a school, teachers, other staff, students, parents, and other community members may continually breathe in those fibers without realizing it. If asbestos is discovered in a school, it can save many people’s lives. But what should you do if you find asbestos in a school? Read on to find out.

What to Do if You Discover Asbestos in a School

Prompt and careful action is necessary after asbestos is discovered in a school. If there is asbestos in a school, the following are the steps to take to ensure your safety and the safety of others;