How Long Do Asbestos Particles Stay in Air?
Did you know that whenever you disturb asbestos products, they release tiny fibers that remain in the air and could be risky for your health if inhaled? Yes, these fibers can result in serious diseases like lung cancer or Mesothelioma.
So, if you or your neighbors have recently undergone asbestos removal, you need to be alert. Are you wondering how long asbestos stays in the air or what its long-term issues are?
Well, in this blog, you’ll find answers to all your queries. We’ll also discuss how airborne asbestos can cause a lot more damage than you think.
First, let us get the basics out of the way.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a natural fibrous mineral that is popular due to its heat resistance and strength. During the 20th century, it was widely used in the construction of buildings, but later, as its negative impacts came into notice, the US government almost banned it.
If your building is old, the possibility of asbestos-containing material(ACM) is higher. If any of the ACMs are disturbed during the construction or renovation, their fibers spread in the air. These fibers are so small that you can inhale them without even realizing it.
And the damage? It doesn’t show up overnight. Diseases like Mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer can take 10 to 40 years to develop after exposure.
What Are The Different Types of Asbestos?
Asbestos can be divided into six different types and is divided into two separate groups - Serpentine and Amphibole.
- Chrysotile - This is the most commonly used asbestos type since it is heat resistant. This also makes it extremely hazardous as it causes a type of lung cancer with a low rate of survival.
- Amosite - This is the second most common form of asbestos used in cement and insulation. Also known as brown asbestos, it is considered the most dangerous of them all in terms of lung cancer.
- Crocidolite - Known as blue asbestos, this type has very thin fibers that can get stuck in your lungs. Long-term exposure, therefore, paves the way for lung disease, especially lung cancer.
- Tremolite - Although initially this type of asbestos was not widely used, its durability and heat resistance made it widely used in insulation, sealants, and even paint. It poses a major threat of asbestosis and mesothelioma.
- Anthophyllite - This is a rare form of asbestos with a grey-brown color. Usually, it is found in talcum powders, and though it is considered less hazardous than the others, this type of asbestos still poses a lot of health risks.
- Actinolite - This is the rarest form of asbestos and is hardly used. However, its sharp fibers can still cause serious respiratory issues such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer when inhaled over time.
While different types of asbestos have different levels of risk related to them, all are extremely toxic to our health.
How Long Does Asbestos Stay in The Air?
Asbestos can stay in the air for as long as 48 to 72 hours after it has been released. However, it is important to note that even after it has settled, the lightest of breezes can again release it into the air. Their presence in the air also depends on certain factors -
- Air Movement - If there’s wind, ventilation, or even someone walking through a room, the fibers can stay suspended longer than you'd expect.
- Disturbance Level - Cutting drywall, removing insulation, or even small repairs can release asbestos fibers. So, the more asbestos-containing material (ACM) you disturb, the more fibers are released, and the longer they can stay in the air.
- Lack of Cleanup - Without proper cleanup, asbestos doesn’t just disappear. It settles on surfaces and can get stirred back into the air, even days later.
How Far Can Asbestos Travel In The Air?
Since asbestos can stay in the air for several days, it is difficult to say with certainty how much airborne asbestos can travel. Owing to their aerodynamic properties, they can travel for a long time depending on the speed of the air.
How To Detect Asbestos In The Air?
It is extremely hard for the naked eye to pick up on asbestos threads. That is why Asbestos Air Testing is extremely essential. Listed below are the different types of air testing for asbestos fibers.
- Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM)- This method measures the total number of fibers in the air without categorizing the types of fibers. However, PCM testing is known for missing out on small fibers and is used only when dealing with an asbestos hazard.
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)- This process captures the finest fibers and reports only the asbestos fibers. It is used to truly assess the asbestos fibers that are present in the air.
Worried About Asbestos Presence in Air? Let’s Answer Your Queries!
I can’t see asbestos, so how would I know it’s there?
The problem with asbestos is that it’s invisible to the naked eye. You can’t see, smell, or taste it. Have you recently-
- Started a renovation in a home built before 1980?
- Noticed old insulation, damaged tiles, or strange white tape around pipes?
- Hired a contractor who didn’t test for asbestos?
If you answered yes to any of these, there’s a chance asbestos is present, and that means you’re at risk of disturbing it and sending those fibers airborne.
Can I fix it using DIY solutions?
When it comes to asbestos, that choice could be dangerous and even illegal. In fact, many states (including California) have strict regulations on asbestos removal, and for good reason. Improper handling of asbestos can expose your entire family or building occupants.
Takeaway
The most important step toward getting rid of asbestos in the air is not to do it yourself. Asbestos is an extremely toxic substance that can lead to a lot of fatal diseases. Therefore, you should always reach out to licensed and experienced professionals while dealing with them.
However, if this is an emergency situation, you can try spraying water in the affected areas while wearing proper safety gear before a professional arrives.
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Wondering If Your Area Has Airborne Asbestos? Contact Certified Asbestos Experts At JM Environmental Inc.
At JM Environmental, we’ve been handling asbestos abatement in Northern California for three decades. We understand the risks, know how long asbestos can linger in the air, and how to eliminate it safely and thoroughly.
Our licensed and expert team is committed to providing you with the best service that matches your expectations. We use professional-grade barriers, HEPA filtration, and negative air pressure to prevent airborne spread.
Not just asbestos abatement, we have also mastered decontamination, lead removal, mold remediation, and fire debris removal, making us the leading asbestos removal company in Stockton. Contact us today to unlock a safer and better quality living experience.