If you think your home may have
asbestos, don't panic!
Usually it is best to leave asbestos
material that is in good condition alone. Generally, material in good
condition will not release asbestos fiber. There is no danger unless
fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs.
Do not cut, rip, or sand
asbestos-containing materials.
Leave undamaged materials alone and, to the
extent possible, prevent them from being damaged, disturbed, or touched.
Periodically inspect for damage or deterioration. Discard damaged or
worn asbestos gloves, stove-top pads, or ironing board covers. Check
with local health, environmental, or other appropriate officials to find
out about proper handling and disposal procedures. If asbestos material
is more than slightly damaged, or if you are going to make changes in
your home that might disturb it, repair or removal by a professional is
needed. Before you have your house remodeled, find out whether asbestos
materials are present.
When you need to remove or clean up
asbestos, use a professionally trained contractor.
Select a contractor only after careful
discussion of the problems in your home and the steps the contractor
will take to clean up or remove them. Consider the option of sealing off
the materials instead of removing them.
This brochure, authored by the Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxic
Substances' Asbestos Program, discusses health effects of
asbestos exposure, identifies common products and building materials
from the past that might contain asbestos, and describes conditions that
may cause release of asbestos fibers. Describes how to identify
materials that contain asbestos and how to control an asbestos problem.
Explains the role of asbestos professionals and use of asbestos
inspectors and removal contractors. This brochure was co-authored with the
American Lung Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission. [EPA 400-K-90-100, Sept. 1990]
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