Common Asbestos Myths

If you know anything about asbestos, you probably know this: it’s dangerous. Asbestos has an almost mythical quality to it. As a child, your parents likely spoke to you about it in hushed tones, as if it were some sort of monster or evil villain. As asbestos removal and restoration experts, we’re here to set the facts straight.

Here are a few common asbestos myths, debunked:

Asbestos Is No Longer Used

In 1978, the U.S. banned the manufacturing of spray-applied asbestos materials. This cut-off year is often considered the end of asbestos. What people don’t realize is that in homes built before 1978, asbestos can still be present in ceilings, surface spray-on materials, and paint. Asbestos is still a prominent issue in many homes and commercial buildings, even today. If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your home, get in touch with a professional for an inspection as soon as possible.

Asbestos Is Only Dangerous with Long-Term Exposure

You’re only at risk of illness from asbestos if you renovate old houses for a living, right? Wrong. Many people believe that you’re at risk of developing mesothelioma—a serious cancer which develops in the abdomen, lungs, or heart—only if you’ve been exposed to asbestos for years on end. Although this is true, short-term exposure can also be dangerous. Illnesses related to asbestos exposure can take up to 30 years to present themselves. Physiological reactions vary from person to person, and can range from minor to life-threatening.

Once Discovered, You Should Immediately Remove Asbestos from Your Home

This myth is an important one to understand, as disturbing asbestos can pose a serious health risk to you and your family. When you disturb asbestos, its harmful fibers are released into the air. If the asbestos is contained and in good condition, it is unlikely that, just sitting there, it is releasing dust and fibers. Asbestos removal is dangerous and should, under no circumstances, be approached as a DIY job. Call a local asbestos removal company to deal with the issue safely.

Only Older Men Get Mesothelioma

Although most mesothelioma cases are diagnosed in men in their late 60s and 70s, women and young men are also susceptible to the illness. Men are more likely to develop cancers and other illnesses because they tend to work in more industrial jobs, like mining, automotive repair, and ship construction. Spouses and children of men working with and around asbestos may inadvertently be at risk of mesothelioma. Harmful fibers on clothing and skin can lead other family members to second-hand exposure.

Asbestos is dangerous, however, many of what is propagated in popular culture as fact is myth. If you suspect there is asbestos in your home, it is imperative that you seek help from a professional asbestos removal company. Get in touch with Certified Asbestos Removal today to learn more about our services.