You are probably already aware of the dangers of asbestos and that it has been linked to various diseases, including cancer.

You might also be aware that this material took over the spotlight before the 90s because of its cost-effectiveness, strength, insulation, and waterproofing capabilities.

But do you know that there are many other scary things that the asbestos companies never wanted you to find out?

Below are some shocking facts you should know about asbestos to stay informed and keep your family safe.

1. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral mined by Asbestos companies

By looking at it, you might be tempted to think that asbestos is a manufactured product. The truth is that it comes from several fibrous silicate minerals, which are mined in Canada, South Africa, and North America. 

The reason asbestos is so harmful, is because it is comprised of needle-like fibres, which are extremely toxic when they get into your lungs and body.

2. There are 6 different kinds of asbestos

Asbestos comes in six types:

• Amosite (brown asbestos)
• Chrysotile (white asbestos)
• Crocidolite (blue asbestos)
• Anthophyllite
• Actinolite
• Tremolite

Because of its chemical and physical properties, chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos. It is highly flexible and can resist alkaline reactions and insane levels of heat. 

Chrysotile is mostly blended with cement and used in ceilings, walls, floors, and roofs of commercial and residential properties.

Crocidolite is another common asbestos that was used in cement sheets and thermal insulation because of its strength and high heat resistance. It is also regarded as the most dangerous among all other types of asbestos.

Amosite is highly resistant to heat and was widely used in making fire-resistant and anti-condensation products. 

3. Asbestos was used in a wide range of products that you have probably been in contact with yourself

Asbestos was commercially used for various purposes, especially fireproofing, acoustics, insulation, and anti-condensation buildings. 

As certified asbestos removalists in Bundaberg, we have seen it used in a broad range of products, including:

• Paper
• Yarn and ropes
• Mattress insulation
• Gaskets and reinforced plastics
• Cement, roofing, and tiles
• Spray-on coatings, sealants, and adhesives
• Toothpaste (shocking!) and Talcum powder
• Bricks and drywall compounds
• Car brake linings
• Linen, felt, cloth, fabrics, and a myriad of other textile materials

4. Asbestos can cause deadly damages to the human body

The main reason why residential and commercial asbestos removal companies still exist is because asbestos was used in so many homes and businesses in Bundaberg until the late 90s. 

The 1920s experienced a boom in the use of asbestos. A few years later, reports of its health concerns emerged. In 1924, the first case of lung cancer linked to asbestos was published in the British Medical Journal, but doctors and researchers were hesitant to prove the claim.

After many years of research, it emerged that asbestos, especially its dust, could not be broken down by the human anatomy; thus, it causes severe scarring, inflammation, and even genetic damage.

What makes asbestos even more dangerous is that it is a carcinogen (a substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue), hence exposure to it, even in small amounts, could result in asbestos-related diseases, including lung cancer.

If you work in an environment where you are regularly exposed to asbestos, or worse, if you are living in a home containing asbestos, it is recommended that you have a screening test annually, since symptoms of exposure may not manifest themselves for up to 15 years.

Don’t forget that asbestos kills more people than road accidents. Therefore, if you live in an old home, it is prudent to call a residential asbestos removals company to safely remove this product and make your home a safe place for everyone.

4. Asbestos is now banned in many countries

Many countries around the world have banned the use of asbestos because of their adverse effects on the human body.

Some of the countries where this product is banned include Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and the UK. 

Some countries are hesitant to ban the product and have instead regulated its use. Some of these countries include Thailand, China, and Russia.

However, asbestos is still legal in some countries, including India, most parts of South America, and even in the United States.

5. Asbestos should be handled with care

Asbestos is not your usual product. If you have to handle it, then you need to do so with a lot of care.

In case you cannot hire an asbestos removalist in Bundaberg to take care of this product for you, or you work in an environment where you are exposed to it in any way, there are several things you can do to minimise the risk:

• Always turn off the air conditioning
• Wear suitable protective gear
• Keep asbestos surfaces wet to prevent the spread of dust
• Take a shower before going home
• Always wash your clothes

DO NOT sweep or vacuum asbestos fibres or dust because it will emit harmful particles into the air. Also, avoid smoking, eating, or drinking in an asbestos-inhabited area. 

Remember, you are the most important person in your life. Therefore, protect yourself and your family from exposure, and you will live a longer, healthier, and happier life.

For a free, no-obligation asbestos removal quote, click here or give our friendly team a call to discuss your needs.