Asbestos Awareness in Older Buildings
Overview
Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials until the 1980s, meaning many existing buildings still contain these hazardous fibers. Workers in renovation, maintenance, and demolition face significant health risks if asbestos-containing materials are disturbed improperly.
Why This Is Important
Asbestos exposure causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis - diseases that typically develop 20-50 years after exposure and are often fatal. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure, and even brief contact with disturbed asbestos materials can cause life-threatening illnesses.
Asbestos-related diseases kill approximately 40,000 Americans annually, more than vehicular accidents. These deaths are entirely preventable through proper identification, handling procedures, and professional abatement when necessary.
Best Practices & Safety Tips
Assume Presence
In buildings constructed before 1980, assume asbestos may be present until proven otherwise through professional testing.
Stop Work if Suspected
Immediately stop work and notify supervisors if you suspect you've encountered asbestos-containing materials.
Professional Testing
Only trained professionals should collect samples and perform asbestos testing. Never attempt to test materials yourself.
Require Professional Removal
Asbestos removal must be performed by licensed abatement contractors with specialized equipment and training.
Medical Monitoring
Workers with potential asbestos exposure should receive regular medical surveillance including chest X-rays and lung function tests.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
Flooring Materials
Vinyl floor tiles, sheet flooring, and associated mastics from before 1980 often contain asbestos.
Insulation
Pipe insulation, boiler insulation, and vermiculite attic insulation commonly contain asbestos fibers.
Spray-Applied Materials
Fireproofing, acoustical plaster, and textured ceiling coatings frequently used asbestos for reinforcement.
Gaskets and Packing
HVAC system gaskets, valve packing, and joint compounds in older systems may contain asbestos.
Cement Products
Transite panels, cement pipe, roofing shingles, and siding materials commonly incorporated asbestos fibers.
Safe Work Practices
- Don’t Disturb Intact Materials - Asbestos materials in good condition pose minimal risk if left undisturbed. Avoid drilling, cutting, or sanding suspected materials.
- Use Wet Methods - If minor disturbance is unavoidable, wet the material first to minimize fiber release, but this doesn’t eliminate the hazard completely.
- Isolate Work Areas - Seal off areas where asbestos may be present to prevent contamination of other building areas and protect other occupants.
- No Eating or Drinking - Never eat, drink, or smoke in areas where asbestos exposure is possible. This can transfer fibers to your mouth and digestive system.
Discussion Questions
- What types of older buildings do we work in that might contain asbestos materials?
- How do we currently handle suspected asbestos discoveries during our work?
- What training do we need to better identify potential asbestos-containing materials?
- Who should we contact immediately if we suspect asbestos exposure has occurred?
Action Items
- Learn to identify common asbestos-containing materials in older buildings
- Establish procedures for stopping work when asbestos is suspected
- Ensure contact information for qualified asbestos professionals is readily available
- Review building records and asbestos surveys before beginning work
Related Safety Topics
Takeaway: Asbestos exposure can kill you decades after contact, making prevention absolutely critical. When working in older buildings, always assume asbestos may be present and take appropriate precautions. Never take chances with suspicious materials - the potential consequences are too severe and irreversible.