Types of Asbestos and Their Dangers
More than 39,000 American lives are lost to asbestos-related disease yearly, and there are thousands more who continue to be unsafe every single day.
There are different types of asbestos and various amounts of danger that come with each one.
Knowing what each piece means allows you to keep your family safe and protect them. Take a look at various types of asbestos and the possible side effects each have below.
Different Types of Asbestos: Chrysotile
It is the most common type of asbestos, accounting for 95% of the asbestos found in the US. It is used in a variety of products, including insulation, roofing, flooring, and textiles. Studies have shown that chrysotile exposure can cause a variety of health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Different Types of Asbestos: Amosite
In its natural state, it is known as grunerite and was mainly mined in South Africa.
Amosite, also known as brown asbestos, is the second most common type of asbestos in the US. It is found in insulation materials, pipe insulation, ceiling tiles, and asbestos-cement products. Exposure to amosite asbestos creates a higher risk of cancer compared to chrysotile asbestos.
Different Types of Asbestos: Crocidolite
Crocidolite, also known as blue asbestos, is considered the most dangerous type of asbestos. Crocidolite fibers are thin and sharp, and can easily penetrate human tissue. When these fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious damage to the lungs and other organs.
Crocidolite is most commonly found in South Africa and was once used in a variety of products, including insulation and fireproofing materials. Though it is no longer used in manufacturing, crocidolite fibers may still be present in older buildings and homes.
Different Types of Asbestos: Anthophyllite
Anthophyllite was used in limited quantities for construction materials and insulation products. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and has a fibrous structure. When inhaled, anthophyllite asbestos fibers can cause lung damage and cancer.
It is a contaminant also found in vermiculite, talc, and chrysotile asbestos. It is known to have a dull green or white color.
Different Types of Asbestos: Tremolite and Actinolite
Tremolite and actinolite are commonly found in metamorphic rocks. Both tremolite and actinolite are known to cause mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. Exposure to either of these types of asbestos can also cause lung cancer and other respiratory problems.
They are not used commercially but can be found as contaminants in vermiculite, talk, and chrysotile asbestos.
Asbestos Awareness Training
Asbestos awareness training is important for anyone who may come into contact with asbestos. This type of training can help people to identify which type of asbestos is most dangerous and to take the proper precautions to avoid exposure.
The asbestos certification course covers the requirements for regulating asbestos exposure in the construction industry.
Avoid Getting Exposed to Asbestos
There are many types of asbestos, and each type is dangerous in its own way. Some types of asbestos can cause lung cancer, while others can cause mesothelioma. Asbestos is a deadly substance, and no one should be exposed to it. If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos, please contact a doctor immediately.
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