Asbestos Experiences of Asian Countries: China
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 09:06
In the People's Republic of China rapid industrialization and economic growth have generated an almost unquenchable thirst for asbestos.
Is all asbestos dangerous?
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 09:02
No. In fact, when asbestos is in good condition, it's not an immediate risk (but should be regularly monitored). Asbestos particles are dangerous: when Asbestos becomes "friable" (meaning that it can be easily broken apart by hand) then the microscopic particles become airborne and enter the lungs. Because of their size and shape, the particles remain airborne for a long time and are easily ingested into the lungs or stomach. Therefore, older, fraying asbestos or damaged asbestos is particularly dangerous.
Asbestos in Vinyl
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:56
Asbestos can be found in vinyl sheet flooring or vinyl floor tiles, but it is also found in vinyl wallpaper. Asbestos was added to these products to strengthen them, make them resistant to scratching and scuffmarks, and to make them more resistant to humidity. Asbestos in vinyl seemed like a good idea decades ago, before the link between asbestos and cancers (including mesothelioma) was established.
In Homes, Schools, and Offices
Records of asbestos hazards
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:55
The hazards of asbestos were recorded as early as Roman times. Both Pliny the Elder and the first century geographer Strabo noted that workers exposed to asbestos had many health problems. Pliny the Elder recommended that quarry slaves from asbestos mines not be purchased because "they die young." Lung ailments were common to anyone who worked with asbestos fibers. Pliny the Elder suggested the use of a respirator made of transparent bladder skin to protect workers from asbestos dust.
Asbestos health effects
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:54
Exposure to asbestos increases your risk of developing lung disease. That risk is made worse by smoking. In general, the greater the exposure to asbestos, the greater the chance of developing harmful health effects. Disease symptoms may take several years to develop following exposure. If you are concerned about possible exposure, consult a physician who specializes in lung diseases (pulmonologist).
Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos Diseases
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:53
Asbestos exposure can cause serious diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestos lung cancer. If you breathe asbestos fibers into your lungs, some of the fibers will be deposited in the air passages and on the cells that make up your lungs. Some fibers remain trapped in the lungs, causing severe respiratory damage.
Why is asbestos still a problem?
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:52
Asbestos is still a problem because a great deal of it has been used in the United States and elsewhere, because many asbestos-containing products remain in buildings, ships, industrial facilities and other environments where the fibers can become airborne, and because of the serious human health hazards of inhaling asbestos fibers.
Asbestos in Your Backyard
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:46
How to Identify and Manage Asbestos Waste on Your Property
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is the common name for a group of naturally occurring mineral fibers that are known for their high tensile strength and thermal insulating properties. It is commonly found in a variety of building construction materials and products.
Why is asbestos a problem?
Asbestos facts
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:45
- Asbestos was valued for its durability, fire resistance and excellent insulating properties
- If the fibres are disturbed during renovation, precautions should be taken.
- The safest option is to call in the experts
Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos Diseases Caused by Asbestos Exposure
Submitted by admin on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 08:43
