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Why You Should Never Disturb Asbestos

Although the use of asbestos has greatly decreased in recent decades, it is still present in many older products and materials, including such building materials as fireproofing products, roofing materials, ceiling and floor tiles, and pipe and boiler insulation. If you suspect you have asbestos-containing materials in your home or building, leave it alone - do not disturb it.

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that can be released when disturbed or touched. Generally, asbestos-containing material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers can be released into the air when asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, while those materials that are intact pose little risk for exposure. There is no danger unless fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs.

Breathing in asbestos fibers for a prolonged period of time may result in serious diseases, such as lung cancer, asbestosis (lung scarring), or mesothelioma, a cancer in the lining of the lungs or abdomen. Smokers who are exposed to asbestos have a much greater risk of developing asbestos-related diseases than non-smokers.

Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur after asbestos-containing materials are disturbed by remodeling activities or contact. Improper attempts to remove these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air, increasing asbestos levels and endangering those nearby. The most dangerous fibers are too small to be visible, while symptoms of asbestos-related diseases do not show up until many years after exposure. Therefore, it is best to leave undamaged asbestos material alone and only allow trained and qualified professionals near asbestos-containing materials.

For more information on asbestos inspection and removal in your Washington DC, Northern Virginia, or Maryland home or business, contact RTS Environmental Services. RTS Environmental Services has completed thousands of mold and asbestos inspections and solutions throughout the Washington DC metropolitan area, in such communities as Springfield, Falls Church, and Potomac.

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