Unless you’re unaware, asbestos has been used as a major building material back in the earlier days, especially around the 1980s. There are many reasons why asbestos was used in those days, with the primary advantages being water & fire-resistant. The material was common used for the construction of schools as well as other types of structures.
Almost every homeowner out there knows how dangerous asbestos is and how it can lead to several health issues in human beings. However, not everyone out there knows about certain facts regarding asbestos and that’s what we are going to share in this guide. So, without wasting any precious moments, let’s jump onto the topic at hand.
Significant Facts To Learn About Asbestos
- Asbestos Is Naturally Occurring
According to professional services for asbestos removal in NZ, asbestos is a type of material that is naturally occurring on the earth’s crust. It should be perceived that asbestos is usually mined from the earth and it’s not just a single material. Instead, it’s a mixture of six different minerals which are made of silicate and all of those minerals are carcinogenic, which means they are harmful to the health of human beings.
- Asbestos Has Different Applications
Unless you’re unaware, asbestos is a very common material that is used in creating building supplies. You can also find asbestos in cosmetic products, such as talcum powder, makeup accessories, school supplies and the like.
The material is highly known for its fire-retardant properties, which is why it was used in the construction of fire fighting suits & equipment.
- Asbestos-Related Diseases Need Years To Be Developed
It should be known that asbestos leads to the formation of mesothelioma, which is a very rare form of cancer and is deadly as well. This type of illness forms inside the lungs and abdomen of human beings. Generally, mesothelioma takes around a minimum of fifteen years to be developed and show symptoms. Some people might not even show the symptoms at all. People who are affected by cancer in their 60s and 70s were usually affected by asbestos when they were young.
Even though asbestos is dangerous, it’s more hazardous when the asbestos dust particles are released into the air. These particles can easily be ingested and inhaled by human beings. Since these particles are minute and are not seen that easily by the naked eyes, most people out there don’t become aware of them unless they’re ill.
You must know that asbestos, once enters your body, will not leave your body. As per professional services for asbestos testing in Auckland, the entered asbestos particles will continue to stay in your stomach or lungs, waiting to find the correct moment to attack your body cells.
- Asbestos Can Exist In Multiple Forms
Essentially, asbestos can be termed as many minerals, which are separated into two distinct groups – amphibole and serpentine. The serpentine type of asbestos is made up of a mineral known as chrysotile, or otherwise known as white asbestos. This type usually accounts for almost 95 per cent of all asbestos types around the world.
On the other hand, the amphibole mineral group has several forms, which include amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite and actinolite. Out of the above-mentioned names, only amosite, chrysotile and crocidolite are mined heavily and are used for commercial reasons.
At the end of the heyday, asbestos does tend to have an interesting history, which is the reason why it’s vital to know about its dangers. In case you have an asbestos problem at your home, proceed to set up an inspection service with us.
