Contact Us Today!info@abatement-specialties.com
Cedar Rapids Office
1814 E. Ave. NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
319-221-1043 Phone
Davenport Office
5403 Brady Street
Davenport, IA 52806
563-386-2100 Phone
563-386-2266 Fax
Frequently Asked Questions
Asbestos Questions
- What is Asbestos?
- What are the health effects of asbestos exposure?
- How might I be exposed to asbestos fibers?
- I am going to perform a renovation or demolition to my building. Is there anything I should know about asbestos before I begin my project?
Asbestos Answers
1. What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is the name given to a number of naturally occurring, fibrous silicate minerals mined for their useful properties such as thermal insulation, chemical and thermal stability, and high tensile strength.
Back to Top
2. What are the health effects of asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure can lead to diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis (lung scarring), and mesothelioma (cancer of the lung cavity lining). There is a long latency period for these diseases. It could be 30 years after exposure before symptoms of disease begin.
Back to Top
3. How might I be exposed to asbestos fibers?
Asbestos can enter the environment from weathered natural mineral deposits and fiber releases arising from manmade asbestos products. Asbestos may be found in products like floor tiles, roof shingles, cement, and automotive brakes. Electrical, plumbing, acoustical, and structural insulation applications are also very common. Asbestos fibers are released into the air when these products are disturbed.
Back to Top
4. I am going to perform a renovation or demolition to my building. Is there anything I should know about asbestos before I begin my project?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) requires that you perform a survey to determine the presence of asbestos in your building before doing a renovation or demolition. You must also notify the state before you start such a project.
Back to Top