Salt Lake City, UT, homes built before the early 1980s may contain asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that was once used in various building materials because it is durable, fire resistant, and an excellent insulator. Known as a human carcinogen, asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other serious health problems. It is essential to be aware of the dangers and take steps to protect yourself and your family.
Where Is Asbestos Found?
Asbestos was widely used in the industrial, construction, and military fields because of its resistance to heat, electricity, and chemical damage. Some of the common asbestos products used in residential and commercial properties include:
1) Insulation
2) Flooring
3) Roofing
4) Siding
5) Pipe Covering
6) Brake pads and linings
7) Clutches
8) Fireproofing materials
What Are the Hazards of Asbestos?
1) Cancers: Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma, cancer affecting the thin membrane that covers most of your internal organs. It’s also been linked to lung, gastrointestinal, laryngeal, and ovarian cancers.
2) Asbestosis: This lung disease is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing.
3) Pleural Effusion: This is a condition in which fluid accumulates around the lungs. It will cause difficulty breathing and chest pain.
4) Pleural Plaques: These are areas of fibrous tissue that form on the pleura (the membrane around the lungs). They are usually benign (non-cancerous) but can cause severe chest pain.
How Does Asbestos Testing Work?
Visual Inspection: This method of asbestos inspection is recommended for visibly damaged or deteriorated materials, as asbestos fibers may not be visible to the naked eye.
Sample Analysis: This method involves taking a sample of the material in question and sending it to a lab for analysis. The most common type of sample analysis is called polarized light microscopy (PLM).
Surveillance: This method uses special equipment to scan the area for asbestos fibers. The two most common types of surveillance are transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Asbestos exposure can be hazardous—even lethal—which is why it’s so important to have your home inspected for asbestos if you suspect it may contain this material. Please contact Asbestos Abatement Services today if you live in the Salt Lake City area and need an asbestos removal service. With our family and pet-friendly services, you protect yourself and your family from the dangers of asbestos exposure.
