Health Tip: Asbestos Tips For Homeowners

(HealthDay News) -- Asbestos is a mineral fiber that is found in rock and salt. The fibers are strong and heat-resistant, so they have been used in construction materials for insulation and to prevent the spread of fire.

But the fibers can be released into the air during demolition and building repair, increasing a person's risk of developing lung disease.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers these do's and don'ts for homeowners:

  • Do leave undamaged asbestos alone.
  • Do limit children's access to any materials that may contain asbestos.
  • Do have removal or repair done by people trained in handling asbestos.
  • Don't dust, sweep or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos.
  • Don't saw, sand, scrape or drill holes in asbestos.
  • Don't use abrasive materials to strip wax from asbestos flooring.
  • Don't sand or remove asbestos flooring. When asbestos flooring needs replacing, install new floor over the old.
  • Don't track material that could contain asbestos through the house. If you cannot avoid walking through the area, have it cleaned with a wet mop.

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Check Your Pantry, Lay's Classic Potato Chips Recalled Due to Milk Allergy Risk

    Allergies Have You Stuffed Up? Nose Fungi May Be to Blame

    Wildfire Smoke Alters Immune System, Study Says

    Many Kids Unnecessarily Hospitalized Following Allergic Reactions

    Antibiotics Might Increase Risk of Childhood Asthma, Allergies

    “Chameleon” Immune Cells Linked To Severe Asthma

    Timing Might Be Everything With Asthma Inhalers

    Digital Tool Potentially Predicts Childhood Asthma

    Medicaid 'Unwinding' Cost Kids Access To Asthma Inhalers, Other Chronic Disease Meds

    1 in 3 Children Now Suffer From Chronic Illness

    This Flu Season Is Worst In A Decade

    Flu and Stomach Bugs Are Spreading Fast—Are You Prepared?

    Has RSV Vaccine Hesitancy Subsided?

    Moderna's Combo Flu and COVID Shot Shows Promise

    Obesity Raises Risk of Severe Infection, Especially in People With Diabetes