Indoor Air Quality:
Asbestos
Used in building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant, this fiber is most commonly found in older homes.
There is no danger unless fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs, so it’s best to leave asbestos that is not chipped or flaking alone. Exposure causes no immediate symptoms but, over time, increases your risk of developing cancer and lung disease.
What to do:
- Never cut, rip, sand, or remove any asbestos-containing materials yourself.
- Periodically inspect floor tiles, pipe wrap, ceilings, or furnace insulation containing asbestos.
- If you are unsure of the condition of asbestos, or need to remove or clean up asbestos, hire a qualified professional who specializes in asbestos removal.
