The Knowledge Clinic: Why is Asbestos So Dangerous?

Various groups of people need to be aware of asbestos and its associated risks due to their potential exposure or involvement in activities that may disturb asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos is dangerous due to its microscopic fibers, which can be easily inhaled and cause serious health problems. Here are the key reasons why asbestos is considered hazardous: Respiratory Health Risks: When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, tiny asbestos fibers are released into the air. These fibers are so small that they can remain suspended for long periods and be inhaled into the lungs. Once inhaled, they can cause various respiratory issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

1. Asbestosis: Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to the development of asbestosis, a chronic lung condition. Asbestos fibers cause scarring of the lung tissue, making it difficult for the affected person to breathe. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.
2. Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure is a known cause of lung cancer. It has been established that people who work with asbestos or live in environments with high asbestos concentrations have a higher risk of developing lung cancer, especially if they are also smokers.
3. Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, but it can also occur in the abdomen or other organs. It is almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure, and its development is often attributed to inhaling or swallowing asbestos fibers.
4. Latency Period: One of the challenges with asbestos-related diseases is the long latency period. Symptoms may not manifest until several decades after initial exposure, making it difficult to associate health issues directly with past exposure.
5. No Safe Level: There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Even brief exposure to asbestos fibers can pose a risk to health. Regulations and safety measures often focus on minimizing or eliminating exposure to prevent the associated health risks.

Due to the well-established health risks associated with asbestos, its use has been heavily restricted or banned in many countries. However, it is still present in older buildings and structures, posing a risk during renovations or demolitions. Proper precautions and safety measures are essential when dealing with asbestos-containing materials to prevent exposure and protect human health. Need advice or training for Asbestos Awareness? See our courses available. Buy a course Now or Subscribe to this blog.