How to Identify Asbestos in Your Home or Workplace

Asbestos causes approximately 40,000 deaths annually in the U.S. and is linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other cancers. Despite its dangers, asbestos isn’t entirely banned in the U.S., making it vital to know how to identify and avoid it. The only catch is that you cannot see asbestos with your naked eye, and it’s odorless; that is why it is so easy to inhale. So, how can you identify it in your home or workplace? Here is a guide on what to look out for (and stay away from) to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a cluster of six natural fibrous materials, which, although highly toxic, is valued because of its robustness and heat and electricity resistance. Asbestos was mainly used throughout the 20^th century in construction and manufacturing. While asbestos was very appealing back then, its nearly invisible fibers can be easily inhaled, posing serious health risks, including causing mesothelioma. Damaged asbestos materials may look like tiny, fuzzy fibers resembling frayed fabric. However, the presence of visible fibers does not necessarily indicate asbestos. Testing is the only way to confirm if asbestos is present.

Identifying Asbestos in Your Environment

Here are two signs that your home or workplace may have asbestos:

• Your House Was Built Between the 1940s and 1980s

If your home was built before the early 1980s and has not undergone significant remodeling, it likely contains asbestos. While these houses hold a vintage charm that you may not find in modern homes, asbestos can be present, especially in areas with insulation, floor tiles, popcorn ceilings, siding, roofing shingles, and old appliances. Intact surfaces may not be dangerous, but damaged ones can release hazardous fibers into the air. If you suspect something in your house is asbestos, don’t attempt to handle it yourself. Instead, contact a professional to test and address the issue safely.

• Older Office Buildings

Older office buildings are yet another common place where asbestos may lurk. Asbestos may be found in pipe insulation, boilers, ductwork, ceiling tiles, or partition walls. If you work in industries like construction, manufacturing, or shipbuilding, especially in environments established before asbestos regulations, being observant is essential. Regular inspections and proper maintenance can help spot asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that might go unnoticed.

Handling Asbestos in Your Home or Workplace

If you suspect your house or workplace contains asbestos or testing confirms its presence, there are three ways to handle it:

• Leave it Alone: If the asbestos-containing material or surface is not damaged and unlikely to be disturbed, it is best to leave it as is. However, keep children away and monitor any signs of damage.
• Repair or Encapsulate it: For materials that are intact but at risk of minor damage, encapsulation can help. This involves sealing the surface with a coating or sealant to prevent fibers from becoming airborne. For instance, you can encapsulate asbestos tiles by covering them with new flooring instead of removing them.
• Remove it: If the asbestos material is severely damaged or renovation work will disturb it, it’s best to remove it. Ensure that a licensed professional does this.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment and to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.