Important Information Regarding
Residential and Commercial Asbestos Exposure

Despite the institution of asbestos regulations in the United States in the early 1980s, home and business owners are still not immune to the harmful effects of exposure to asbestos. Found in a variety of construction materials, including attic insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, roofing tiles, drywall, and even certain brands of duct tape, asbestos has been known to cause a number of illnesses, including asbestosis and deadly mesothelioma cancer.

Asbestos-containing products may still be found in over 35 million residences and commercial buildings in the U.S., and many home and business owners may not even be aware that the structure which they own harbors this dangerous toxin. Asbestos is not dangerous unless it is disturbed or damaged, at which time the tiny asbestos fibers may become airborne and subsequently be inhaled. Upon inhalation, asbestos fibers can lodge inside the lining of the lungs for decades before an individual may begin to suffer from asbestos-related symptoms, such as breathing difficulties and a chronic cough.

If you are a homeowner, it is crucial that you understand how to protect your family from the dangerous consequences of asbestos exposure. And, if you own a commercial building, it is also imperative that you understand asbestos regulations. The first step is to determine whether or not your residence or commercial building contains asbestos, and the safest and most reliable way to do this is to hire a certified home inspector. A home inspector will be familiar with asbestos safety measures and can determine whether or not your home contains asbestos-containing products – and, if so, they will be able to initiate the safe and proper removal of these products for you. It is advisable to consult with a professional home inspector, who will be able to conduct inspections and testing in a safe and regulated manner, rather than tackle this kind of project yourself and risk asbestos exposure, which could very well lead to the eventual onset of asbestos cancer.

For further information regarding residential & occupational asbestos and the related health implications, please visit Mesothelioma.com.