Asbestoos

Asbestoos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral. It has been used in a wide variety of building materials and industrial products due to its heat and electrical insulation properties, strength, and resistance to corrosion. Common applications included insulation for pipes and boilers, roofing materials, and floor tiles. Exposure to asbestos fibers can occur when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, releasing fibers into the air.

When inhaled, these microscopic fibers can become lodged in the lungs and other tissues. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems, including asbestosis, a chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue, which impairs breathing. It is also a known cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Additionally, asbestos exposure is linked to lung cancer and other cancers.

Due to these health risks, the use of asbestos has been banned or severely restricted in many countries. Strict regulations govern the handling and removal of asbestos-containing materials to prevent fiber release and protect public health. If asbestos is suspected in a building, professional assessment and abatement services are recommended.