What is Asbestos, Exactly?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral known for its heat resistance and durability. It was widely used in the construction industry due to its fireproofing and insulating properties. Asbestos fibers are strong, flexible, and resistant to heat, chemicals, and electricity, making them appealing for a range of applications.
At its peak, over 3,000 different products contained asbestos.
What Contains Asbestos?
Asbestos can be found in many building materials, including insulation, tape, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing materials, cement, and textured coatings. Its usage was prevalent in residential, commercial, and industrial structures throughout North America. At its peak, asbestos was used in over 3,000 different products and building materials.
When Was it Used?
The extensive use of asbestos spanned several decades. In Canada, its usage peaked between the 1940s to 1980s. As the health risks associated with asbestos exposure became more widely recognized, regulations and restrictions were introduced, and it was largely phased out by around 1990. Canada didn't outright ban the use of asbestos in new construction materials until 2016.
What Are The Risks?
The primary concern with asbestos is the release of microscopic fibers into the air when disturbed. Prolonged inhalation of these fibers can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The presence of asbestos in homes can pose risks during renovations, repairs, or any activities that involve disturbing asbestos-containing materials.
How Do I Know if I Have Asbestos?
If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your home, it's important to have the materials tested by a certified asbestos professional. The technician will collect samples and send them to a laboratory for analysis. You will be provided with a report that outlines which materials contain asbestos, and in what quantities.
Should I Remove it?
The decision whether or not to remove asbestos-containing materials depends on a few factors. If the materials are in good condition, undisturbed, and not releasing fibers into the air, leaving them in place may be a viable option. However, if the materials are damaged, deteriorating, or if you plan to disturb the materials, removal might be necessary to eliminate the potential risks.
How Do I Handle it Safely?
If you discover or suspect asbestos-containing materials in your home, it's absolutely critical to follow proper safety protocols. Disturbing or removing asbestos should be left to professionals with proper training and equipment. Attempting to handle or remove asbestos yourself can lead to further fiber release and increased exposure. If you are going to handle these materials, take the time to educate yourself on the safe handling practices and disposal requirements, and obtain all of the proper PPE and safety equipment necessary to complete the job safely.
How Do I Dispose of it?
Again, we strongly recommend that any handling or disposal of asbestos containing materials be conducted by a trained professional. If you need to dispose of a material that you suspect or know contains asbestos, you will need to obtain special permission from the regional district or municipality. Not all transfer stations or landfills will accept asbestos containing materials, you will need to call ahead and make arrangements, obtain a permit, and package and label the materials properly for safe disposal. Asbestos is not disposed of in the regular landfill, it is buried in a special isolated location within the site.
Key Points
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that can cause many different health issues if inhaled.
It was used heavily in many different building materials until around 1990.
It was not banned outright in Canada until 2016.
If you are going to disturb any building materials that may contain asbestos, you should have them tested first.
Asbestos should be handled and disposed of by trained professionals.