How Dangerous Is it to Remove Asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral used in the late 19th and 20th centuries to produce a variety of building materials. Once prized because of its natural resistance to damage caused by fire, asbestos is now known to cause several forms of cancer and pulmonary diseases. While the material is generally considered safe if left in place, if it is moved or damaged, the asbestos fibers can be inhaled, ultimately causing death in some cases.

Who is Authorized to Remove Asbestos?

• In the United States, the removal of asbestos must be performed by a licensed professional, in accordance with the Federal Clean Air Act. Unauthorized asbestos removal can lead to fines and other penalties.

Asbestos Removal Precautions

• When asbestos is removed from a building, the area is sealed off to prevent the spread of airborne asbestos particles, and workers wear protective gear such as respirators. Asbestos can only be disposed of at certain approved dumping locations.

How Much Asbestos is Dangerous?

• According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. A person's risk of developing an asbestos-related disease increases with each exposure, and it also increases if the person is a smoker.

Cancers Linked to Asbestos Exposure

• Asbestos is linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, throat cancer and ovarian cancer.

Other Illnesses Linked to Asbestos Exposure

• Asbestos exposure may also lead to asbestosis and pleural plaques, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.