Background Asbestos Levels
Asbestos is a type of naturally occurring silicon-based mineral. This material was used extensively in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to its ability to absorb sound and resist damage from heat and chemicals. However, asbestos also has natural properties that make it a health hazard.
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Risks
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In its natural form, asbestos is a fibrous material made up of many long, thin crystals, which tend to hang in the air. When humans or animals inhale these crystals, the asbestos fibers lodge in the lungs. Exposure to asbestos, especially over a long period of time, can cause lung cancer, a rare type of cancer called mesothelioma and a lung condition called asbestosis.
Acceptable Levels
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Use of new asbestos in public areas or work spaces is banned in the United States, and the material is regarded as hazardous. However, old asbestos remains in many school buildings and other structures. The U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration sets acceptable background asbestos levels at 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter. According to the University of Illinois Chicago, most public buildings have significantly lower background asbestos levels than this.
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Considerations
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According to Molloy Environmental, even very low levels of asbestos exposure, such as contact with clothing worn by an asbestos worker, can cause damage to the lungs. When asbestos insulation or siding is disturbed or broken, it can release tiny particles into the air, posing a potential health hazard. This means that removing old asbestos is actually more hazardous than leaving it in place.
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References
- Photo Credit school house image by Tanya McConnell from Fotolia.com
