DHSS Press Release |
Date: February 3, 2000 DHSS-DPH5-2000 |
| Gregg C. Sylvester, M.D., Secretary Cynthia Collier, Communication Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 |
Contact: Allison Taylor Levine, DPH Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH TARGETS ASBESTOS IN THE HOME
Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause long-term health effects
DOVER - As part of its "Breathe the Difference" campaign to reduce indoor air pollution, the Division of Public Health is tackling 12 indoor air pollution sources known as the "Dirty Dozen." This month, the campaign focuses on asbestos as a dangerous source of pollution in the home.
Before the 1970s, asbestos commonly was used in construction materials as insulation and fire retardant. Today, the mineral fiber is most often found in older homes, where it was used in pipe and furnace insulation; shingles, siding and roofing; millboard, resilient floor tiles and tile adhesives; backing on vinyl sheet flooring; soundproofing and decorative materials; patching and joint compound; fireproof gloves and stove-top pads; and automobile brake pads and linings.
Asbestos is only a health hazard if its fibers become airborne and are inhaled. This happens when asbestos-containing materials are improperly removed or disturbed by remodeling.
Once inhaled, asbestos fibers can stay and accumulate in the lungs. Health problems, including lung scarring and cancer of the lungs, esophagus, stomach, intestines and rectum, relating to this exposure do not appear for many years.
What should you do to avoid asbestos exposure in your home?
- Find out whether asbestos is present before starting any remodeling. Hire an asbestos professional to do any sampling.
- Consider sealing off asbestos materials instead of removing them. If removal is required, get a qualified professional.
- If the asbestos material is in good shape - not torn, water-damaged or broken - leave it undisturbed. Material in good condition generally will not release fibers.
- Inspect undamaged asbestos periodically for deterioration and avoid damaging it.
- Keep activities to a minimum in any areas where damaged material may contain asbestos.
- Never saw, sand, scrape or drill holes in asbestos materials.
- Never dust, sweep or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos.
- When replacing asbestos flooring, install new flooring over it. Don't sand or level asbestos flooring or its backing.
In addition to asbestos, the indoor air pollution "Dirty Dozen" includes carbon monoxide gas; allergens from poor housekeeping; mold, mildew and mites from excess water; things from outside, such as radon; pests; some houseplants; new materials, such as carpet and furniture; poorly maintained heating/cooling systems; lead paint dust; and tobacco smoke.
If you have questions about the handling of asbestos, call the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control at (302) 323-4542 in New Castle County and (302) 739-4791 in Kent and Sussex Counties. Professional contractors are listed in the Yellow Pages under asbestos. Note that contractors must be licensed in the State of Delaware. Call (302) 739-3930 about for information on licensed contractors.
For a checklist of simple changes you can make to improve air quality in your home, call DPH at (302) 739-6619, or call the Delaware Helpline at (800) 464-HELP (4357) and ask for the Office of Environmental Health Evaluation.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
