How Long Do Asbestos Particles Stay in Air?
So, you or your neighbors have recently undergone an asbestos removal, and now you are wondering how long does asbestos stays in the air or what its long-term issues are?
You do not need us to say how toxic asbestos is in general, but in this blog, we will be discussing how airborne asbestos can cause a lot more damage than you think.
First, let us get the basics out of the way.
What Are The Different Types of Asbestos?
Asbestos can be divided into 6 different types. One of them falls under the chrysotile asbestos daily, while the other five come under the amphibole family.
1. 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.
2. Amosite - This is the second most common form of asbestos used in cement and insulation. Also known as the brown asbestos it is considered the most dangerous of them all in terms of lung cancer.
3. Crocidolite - Known as the blue asbestos this type has very thin fibres that can get stuck in your lungs. Long-term exposure, therefore, paves the way for lung diseases especially lung cancer.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Actinolite - This is the most rare form of asbestos and is hardly used.
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 breeze can again release it in the air.
How Far Can Asbestos Travel In The Air?
Since asbestos can stay in the air for several days, it is difficult to say with surety how much airborne asbestos can travel. Owing to their aerodynamic properties, they can travel for a long time depending on the speed of 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 fiber.
- 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 a 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.
How To Get Rid Of Asbestos Fibers In Air?
The most important step toward getting rid of asbestos in the air is to not fo 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 Airborn Asbestos? Rest Assured With JM Environmental.
At JM Environmental, we are committed to providing you with the best service that matches your expectations. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priority and that is why our team consists of only experienced and licensed professionals.
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.
