Before the 1980s, asbestos-containing roofing materials were a popular choice. Asbestos’ properties made it the primary choice for durability and fire resistance. Asbestos was used in roofing products, as well as various other home materials such as vinyl and plaster. If you think you have been exposed to asbestos, you should first seek medical help. Only a licensed and trained medical professional can properly diagnose and alleviate asbestos exposure-related symptoms.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a fibre. Fibres are extracted from rocks and minerals. During the industrial age, asbestos grew increasingly popular. Asbestos is extremely fire resistant and cost-effective. During the 1900s, manufacturers took advantage of these qualities and used them in various areas such as the automobile, manufacturing, power, construction, and chemical industries. The Australian armed forces also used asbestos to prevent fires.
Is Asbestos Safe?
While asbestos grew increasingly popular, people started to notice they were getting sick. The practical and commercial uses of asbestos exploded to sustain the growth in the industry. In due time, the rate of reported cancers and asbestos-related negative health side effects also drastically increased. In any capacity, asbestos exposure is not safe for humans. The fibres will collect in your lungs, scarring and damaging the tissue. Six common negative health side effects of prolonged asbestos exposure include:
- Mesothelioma, a cancer of the chest and stomach lining
- Lung cancer
- Asbestosis
- Lung lining scarring
- Gastrointestinal tract, kidney, and throat cancer
- Pleural effusions
When your body is affected by asbestos exposure, it can be treated but not fully cured. The fibres you inhale and digest will collect inside your body causing irreversible effects. If you believe you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, you should seek medical help. You should also hire a professional contracting service to remove asbestos from your home.
Should I Remove Asbestos Myself?
The presence of asbestos in your home is dangerous to you, family, friends, and pets. If you need to test your home for asbestos, you should hire a professional. They will be able to analyse the source of the asbestos products and remove it. For example, asbestos roof removal in Perth is a highly sought-after service due to the number of roofs that contain asbestos. When these micro-fibres leak into the air, it poses a great risk to you and your family. Professional contractors providing these services are equipped and trained to safely remove and dispose of asbestos-containing products. Professionals will meet required laws and safety regulations. For example, they should be compliant with WorkSafe WA and The Safe Removal of Asbestos 2005 Edition. You can easily find a certified removal specialist by searching the Internet for local contractors near you.
