California County Holds Asbestos Campaign

Article Added May 25th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

The dangers of asbestos exposure have long been known. But San Diego County has decided to go a step further with their “Don’t mess with asbestos” campaign. County officials involved include county air quality, environmental health and legal officials.

Recent years have shown an alarming increase in the number of citations and lawsuits resulting from improper handling of asbestos on the part of builders and construction crews. Safe procedures for abatement, or removal, and handling of asbestos are outlined nationally but are hard to enforce unless a complaint is made. Asbestos is present in almost all buildings constructed before 1980, and was used as a form of insulation in the buildings. Undisturbed, asbestos is a great form of insulation that is not hazardous; that all changes when the fibrous material is disturbed.

After asbestos-containing material is disturbed, such as during renovations or demolition, the material becomes a dust that is highly dangerous. After being breathed in, the fibers attach to the lining of the lungs causing lung cancer, emphysema, asbestosis and mesothelioma. The officials are hoping to bring the dangers of the material to the forefront as more home owners are renovating, and older buildings are being demolished to make way for future buildings.

Article Added May 25th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story