Asbestos isn’t just one particular material. In fact,it is a commercial term used to describe six different fibrous, naturally-occurring minerals. All of these minerals have certain qualities that make them suitable for specific commercial products. Asbestos has thermal and chemicaldegradation-resistant properties.
In addition, it is a very good insulation material and is also fire proof as well. This is why it is used in ceilings, wallboards as well as textiles and automotive brakes and more. When this material is handled, removed or damaged, it breaks down into minute articles that can be inhaled a very easily.
It is a proven fact that asbestos poses health risks and that individuals exposed to it develop diseases such as asbestosis, cancers, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Even though the asbestos manufacturing industry had become aware of the various dangers of this hazardous material, they didn’t make this information public. It was only in 2003 that asbestos was banned in Australia.
The Harmful Effects Of Asbestos
This is why workers in asbestos manufacturing units continued inhaling this dangerous dust. Aside from this, their family members were also exposed to these health problems, because workers used to come home carrying these fibres on their clothing.
While the health of people working in the asbestos manufacturing units was affected, there are other ways in which people can be exposed to the harmful effects of this material:
- During asbestos mining and processing
- Manufacture of products that contain asbestos
- Installing insulation made of asbestos
- Removal of old asbestos features
- Applying or installing new asbestos features
- Washing, touching or coming into contact with asbestos dust adhered to clothing
In some cases,asbestosfibres can be swallowed when an individual:
- Consumes tainted drink and food
- Breathes through their mouth
- Swallows fibres in their saliva after coughing
- Eats in an area that has asbestos dust present
The Importance of Asbestos Removal
As per the World Health Organization, asbestos in any form is carcinogenic to humans. This is exactly why it is never a good idea to have any kind of damaged or broken asbestos on your property. If you are carrying out any kind of renovation or remodelling work on a property that has been built before 1980, it important that you get the area surveyed for the presence of asbestos, and have it removed without delay.
We at BreathEASY are an asbestos removal company that has been approved by the Australian Government. We can handle projects of any scale and complexity. For more information on our services, feel free to contact us by calling 02 8093 5461 or request a free quote via this form and we will respond shortly.
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