Asbestos

The term “asbestos” identifies a group of mineral substances that share a common, physical characteristic rather than a common chemical composition. These minerals occur naturally in rock and soil and are made up of long, thin, and fibrous crystals. These fibers are so small that a microscope is required to see them.

When left intact and undisturbed, asbestos-containing materials do not pose a health risk to building occupants. There is a potential for exposure only when the material becomes damaged to the extent that asbestos fibers become airborne and are inhaled. Asbestos fibers may be released into the air by the disturbance of asbestos-containing material during demolition work, building maintenance, repair, and remodeling. In general, exposure may occur only when the asbestos-containing material is disturbed or damaged in some way to release particles and fibers into the air.

Inhaling or ingesting asbestos causes fibers to become trapped in the body. Because of their long, thin shape, human immune cells cannot successfully remove them, so the trapped asbestos fibers can cause inflammation, scarring, and cancer over decades of exposure. Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos also causes a progressive lung disease called asbestosis.

Asbestos fibers are almost indestructible by common agents. The fibers are both heat- and chemical-resistant, are excellent thermal and noise insulators, and are resistant to the effects of friction. Asbestos is still found across the country in buildings, roads, homes, schools, factories, ships, trains, and automobiles. A surprising number of products are still made with asbestos, including automobile brakes and clutches, roofing materials, and gaskets. Though a total ban on chrysotile asbestos was finalized in March 2024, companies will be allowed to continue using the mineral in manufacturing processes for another 12 years as the material is phased out.

Asbestos Dos and Don’ts

DO:

• Avoid touching or disturbing ceilings and walls covered with asbestos materials
• Report all damage to suspected asbestos-containing materials to your supervisor
• Contact UTD Occupational Health & Safety for guidance