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There’s been a lot of talk about asbestos exposure over the past several decades. While most of the discussion has surrounded the negative effects of asbestos, the reality is that it exists all over the place—and it may not be as harmful as you think. Today, the asbestos testing experts from Astech in Bridgeport, Connecticut, are here to get to the bottom of this. Let’s start with the basics:

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is made up of a group of minerals that occur naturally. Lauded for its resistance to heat, the mineral dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times. In the U.S., its use became very widespread in the 1940s, when it was used to insulate steam locomotive boilers. Soon after, hundreds of thousands of residential and commercial properties adopted the material primarily for the purposes of insulation. Today, it’s frequently mined in the U.S., Canada, and South Africa.asbestos testing

Where Can You Find It Today?

Today, naturally occurring asbestos is found all over, from the earth’s soil to the water you drink. It was also used for heat insulation, soundproofing, carpet adhesive, caulking, concrete, chalkboards, plaster, heat-resistant gloves, fire blankets, automotive brake linings, and many paper products. 

Is It Dangerous?

Around the 1960s, science linked asbestos exposure to a number of health conditions, including mesothelioma, interstitial fibrosis, asbestosis, pneumoconiosis, and lung cancer. While these dangers were initially ignored by the industry, in 1986, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed an all-encompassing ban. Soon, scientists determined that there are only some dangerous forms of asbestos, including the type found in many older homes. Today, these hazardous forms are banned. The EPA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have determined that only airborne asbestos exposure over the period of many years poses a serious health hazard. For safety reasons, experts strongly recommend having professionals deal with the testing and removal of asbestos to avoid unnecessary exposure or spreading the material throughout the area. 

In summary, some forms of asbestos are dangerous, and others are not. If you think you have asbestos in your home or business, have the technicians at Astech come take a look. To stay safe and healthy, schedule an asbestos testing appointment by calling (203) 335-0502 today. For more information, visit the website.  

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