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Asbestos Asbestos is a mineral fibre that can only be identified with a special type of microscope. There are several types of asbestos fibres which were, in the past, used in various types of household construction and maintenance. Most people are exposed to small amounts of asbestos in their day-to-day living and do not develop health problems. However, if a large amount of asbestos material is disturbed it may release asbestos fibres which can be inhaled into the lungs. The fibres can remain there for a long time, leading to a risk of disease. Asbestos material that crumbles easily when handled, or that has been sawed, scraped, or sanded into a powder, is more likely to create a health hazard. The majority of products made today do not contain asbestos. The few products which do contain asbestos that could be inhaled are required to be labelled. Until the 1970s, many types of building products and insulation materials used in homes contained asbestos: Steam pipes, boilers and furnace ducts insulated with an asbestos blanket or asbestos paper tape. These materials may release asbestos fibres if damaged, repaired, or removed improperly. Resilient floor tiles (vinyl asbestos, asphalt, and rubber), the backing on vinly sheet flooring and adhesives used for installing floor tile. Sanding tiles can release fibres. So may scraping or sanding the backing of sheet flooring during removal. Cement sheet, millboards, and paper used as insulation around furnaces and wood burning stoves. Repairing or removing appliances may release asbestos fibres. So may cutting, tearing, sanding, drilling, or sawing insulation. Door gaskets in furnaces, wood stoves, and coal stoves. Worn seals can release asbestos fibres during use. Soundproofing or decorative material sprayed on walls and ceilings. Loose, crumbly, or water-damaged material may release fibres. So will sanding, drilling, or scraping the material. Patching and joint compounds for walls and ceilings, and textured paints. Sanding, scraping, or drilling these surfaces may release asbestos. Asbestos cement roofing, shingles, and siding. These products are not likely to release asbestos fibres unless sawed or cut. Artificial ashes and embers sold for use in gas-fired fireplaces. Also, older household products such as fireproof gloves, stove-top pads, ironing board covers, and certain hairdryers. If you suspect any area of a property may contain asbestos, monitor it regularly for signs of wear and tear, abrasions or water damage. Do not to touch it or damage it in any way. Asbestos material becomes dangerous only if it is damaged and releases fibres. If asbestos material is more than slightly damaged, or if alterations are to be made to a property that might disturb it, it should be repaired or removed by a professional. Check with local health, environmental, or other appropriate officials for proper handling and disposal procedures. Further Information ARCA House, 237 Branston Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 3BT T: 01283 531126  F: 01238 568228

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