Many of the modern home owners are not aware of asbestos. That is why, when some tells them about NYC asbestos inspection, they wonder why on earth it is necessary. Let us know what asbestos in detail.
Asbestos is a natural occurring element composed of flexible fibers that offer heat and thermal resistance. These qualities make the mineral useful. However, asbestos exposure is highly toxic.
Asbestos is widely used in construction as it is an effective insulator, and it can be added to paper, cement, paper, plastic, and other materials to make them stronger. But when asbestos dust is ingested or inhaled, the fibers can become permanently trapped in the body. You will find asbestos in extensive quantities in older homes and that is why, when the old buildings are pulled down the municipality calls for asbestos inspection in NYC. Over decades, trapped asbestos fibers can cause inflammation, scarring and eventually genetic damage.
More exposure to asbestos can cause cancer and other serious health conditions. An aggressive or rare cancer called mesothelioma is exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos causes a progressive lung disease called asbestosis. The carcinogenic qualities of the mineral are what make asbestos harmful and dangerous.
There are two common types of asbestos found, which are further divided into six types. The two primary categories of asbestos are:
- Amphibole Asbestos
- Serpentine Asbestos
Amphibole asbestos fibers have a straight and jagged shape. The five recognized types are crocidolite, tremolite, amosite, actinolite, and anthophyllite.
Serpentine asbestos fibers are curlier. There is only one kind called Chrysotile, which is also known as “white asbestos.”
