Lead & Other Hazards

About Asbestos

Asbestos is most commonly found in older homes via pipe and furnace insulation materials, asbestos shingles, millboard, textured paints and other coating materials, and floor tiles.

The Facts

Breathing high levels of asbestos fibers can lead to:

• An increased risk of lung cancer
• Mesothelioma (a cancer of the lining of the chest and the abdominal cavity); and
• Asbestosis (condition that occurs where lungs become scarred with fibrous tissue)

The Risks

The EPA counts the most common sources of asbestos exposure:

• Workplace exposure to people that work in industries that mine, make or use asbestos products and those living near these industries, including:
• The construction industry (particularly building demolition and renovation activities)
• The manufacture of asbestos products (such as textiles, friction products, insulation, and other building materials), and
• During automotive brake and clutch repair work
• Deteriorating, damaged, or disturbed asbestos-containing products such as insulation, fireproofing, acoustical materials, and floor tiles

According to the EPA, elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur after asbestos-containing materials are disturbed by cutting, sanding or other remodeling activities. Improper attempts to remove these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air in homes, increasing asbestos levels and endangering people living in those homes.

Steps you can take

If you think there may be asbestos in your home it is best to leave it alone if it is intact. Any asbestos remediation work should be performed by a licensed specialist. Owner and resident must receive notification of asbestos. Visit the EPA website to learn about asbestos programs in your state to address questions about requirements/regulations.