Asbestos was often used in many construction materials for its fiber strength and heat resistance before the hazards were understood. While the EPA regulations do prohibit its use in ways that can be hazardous to humans and our environment, this was not accomplished until the mid 1970s. Any construction before and around that time are at risk of containing asbestos and asbestos compounds. Specific products asbestos was or is commonly used as an ingredient include: roofing, ceiling tiles, wall boards, plaster, floor tiles, paper products, cement products, heat resistant fabrics, packaging, gaskets, and coatings. Many buildings in Columbia predate the EPA bans and are at risk of containing asbestos.
Where asbestos may be found:
Breathing in asbestos fibers is the most often way people are exposed to asbestos and its health risks. The fibers are released into the air when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed during renovations, demolition, removal, building, maintenance, repair, and remodeling work. Before any work is done on a building predating the EPA regulations, an environmental test is highly advised to be sure the building does not contain environmental hazards.
Here at Pinnacle, we use the most advanced techniques to detect asbestos. We employ multiple techniques such as Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) to identify asbestos down to a tenth of a micrometer. Using the same methods as the EPA, we are able to deliver precise results, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your test.
The more exposure to asbestos a patient experiences can be directly related to the seriousness of any health effects from the exposure. It can take many years before any diseases begin to manifest themselves after exposure.
Any other behaviors that can increase risk for lung diseases, such as smoking, may aggravate any asbestos related diseases.
To determine if any health problems are asbestos related, a health care professional will most likely first review the patient’s work, cultural, environmental, and medical history to find any potential exposure to asbestos. If exposure is suspected, there are a number of diagnostic tests to help make an official diagnosis such as a physical examination, chest x-ray, and pulmonary function tests. You may also be referred to a specialist who treats asbestos related diseases.
