Learn About Products Containing Asbestos
Are you interested in learning about products containing asbestos? If so, you'll find that this quick guide is very helpful. Today, we'd like to share information about where asbestos lurks and how to avoid it. First off, we want to let you know some basic facts about this material. Asbestos fibers are very rugged and they will resist acids, heat and friction. They are almost impossible to destroy. Since they linked with the development of a form of cancer, mesothelioma, it's good to know where they are found…
Related: What Is Asbestos Exposure?
Examples of Products Containing Asbestos
These fibers may be found in insulation, such as pipe, corrugated air cell, boiler, breach and block insulation. They may also be found in insulation which is sprayed into place or blown into place. Also, you may find asbestos in products made from paper and in insulation for electric wiring.
As well, acoustical texture items, such as decorative plastic, paint which is textured and acoustical plaster may contain asbestos. In addition, fireproofing products, such as fire doors, fire blankets and fire curtains, may contain the substance.
Textiles may also contain asbestos, including cloth coverings of the protective type, asbestos gloves, blankets and threads. Also, compounds for taping and patching are examples of products containing asbestos.
In terms of household products, older hairdryers, which date back to before 1980, may contain this dangerous substance, as may vintage or antique coffee pots and other products for the home which were produced before regulations about asbestos usage were tightened in 1980.
So, antique collectors or vintage item collectors should be aware that many items that they find at shops or flea markets may contain asbestos fibers. In particular, the cords of older items are often sources of asbestos.
Clearly, products containing asbestos are still out there! A lot of them are actually still being used. For example, older irons and toasters are often sources of asbestos fibers. It's important to be mindful about the small appliances that you keep in your home, particularly if they are old. Now that you know more about the types of items which typically contain asbestos fibers, you'll be one step closer to protecting yourself!
Related: When Was Asbestos Banned? | Facts About Asbestos Banning
Avoid Asbestos At All Costs
Exposure to asbestos is very dangerous. Exposure may result in cancer which cannot be cured. It can be treated, but outcomes for asbestos-related cancers are generally poor. As well, cancers of this type may take a long time to develop to the point where they trigger symptoms. In some cases, it may take twenty years before a person who was exposed to asbestos, via the workplace or via products containing asbestos, experiences symptoms which prompt a doctor's visit and subsequent diagnosis.
Now that you know the facts, you may want to check your home and remove any items which may contain asbestos. Also, consider talking to your doctor, especially if you think you've been exposed to asbestos fibers in the past, even if it was a very long time ago. With asbestos, you cannot be too careful.
