WHAT IS ASBESTOS?

your trusted and reliable partner in ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Understanding Asbestos: Risks, Types, and Health Implications

Overview of Asbestos

Asbestos is a term used to describe a group of naturally occurring minerals that were extensively utilised in various commercial, domestic, and industrial products until the mid-1980s in New Zealand. Despite its widespread use, asbestos is now recognized as a significant health hazard due to its fibrous nature and the risks associated with inhalation of its fibers.

Common Types of Asbestos in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the three most prevalent forms of asbestos are:

• Chrysotile (White Asbestos)

  • CAS Number: 12001-29-5
  • Description: The most commonly found form of asbestos in both domestic and industrial applications.
  • Chemical Composition: {Mg3(Si2O5)(OH)4}n

• Amosite (Brown Asbestos)

  • CAS Number: 12171-73-5
  • Description: Known for its high level of hazard, often used in insulation and fire protection.
  • Chemical Composition: {(Mg,Fe)7SiO22(OH)2}n

• Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos)

  • CAS Number: 12001-28-4
  • Description: Recognized for its highly fibrous nature, often used in products requiring high heat resistance.
  • Chemical Composition: Na2Fe3+Si8O22(OH)2

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos fibers can occur when materials containing asbestos are disturbed through activities such as sanding, sawing, drilling, or during maintenance and removal tasks. The inhalation of asbestos fibers poses significant health risks, as follows:

• Respiratory Impact: Larger asbestos fibers are typically trapped in the nose and major airways and are expelled through normal bodily processes. Smaller fibers, however, can penetrate deeper into the lungs or migrate to other parts of the body, leading to serious health conditions.

• Associated Diseases: Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers is linked to several serious health conditions, including:

  • Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, leading to inflammation and scarring of lung tissue.
  • Lung Cancer: Increased risk of developing cancer in the lungs due to asbestos exposure.
  • Mesothelioma: A rare but aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen.

Recent studies have also found a link between asbestos exposure and cancers of the larynx, oropharynx, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Generally, fibers with a diameter of less than 0.3 micrometers and a length greater than 0.5 micrometers are considered potentially carcinogenic. The risk of developing cancer increases as the size of the fibers decreases.

Latency and Risk

• Latency Period: There is often a significant delay between exposure to asbestos and the onset of related diseases, typically ranging from 15 to 50 years. This long latency period means that the effects of past exposure may still manifest long after exposure has ceased.

• Increased Risk in Children: Emerging evidence suggests that children exposed to asbestos may have a heightened susceptibility to developing asbestos-related diseases later in life. Additionally, non-workers, such as family members exposed to contaminated clothing, are also at risk.

Conclusion

Asbestos-related diseases can persist long after exposure has been controlled, making it crucial to manage and remediate asbestos-containing materials safely and effectively. Ensuring proper handling and disposal procedures can mitigate the risks and protect both individuals and communities from the long-term health impacts associated with asbestos.

For further information or assistance regarding asbestos management and remediation, please contact us directly.