Asbestos Spray Applied Insulation

Among the multitude of places that asbestos was used, insulation was a favorite one owing to its fire-retardant and non-convective properties. Asbestos fiber was added to foams, fluff, fiberfill and cement insulations and used in many aspects of construction till the 1970s. In addition, asbestos was a component of spray-applied insulation that was popular because it was so easy to apply and did not need an expertise to use. The EPA banned the product in 1973 but by then the harm had been done, and 20 to 50 years later, we see the effects in persons exposed to the spray when they are diagnosed with the killer, mesothelioma.

Asbestos Exposure from Spray-Applied Insulation

Of all the uses of asbestos, spray-applied insulation is the one sure method of inhaling asbestos-laden air. The spray creates a fine mist of asbestos fibers that remain suspended in the air where the spray is done; in addition, the area where the spray has been applied is extremely friable and crumbles easily upon the slightest touch. This is inhaled and enters the body to remain gestating for decades, irritating and inflaming the area where it is lodged, usually the lining of the lungs or heart or stomach. And many years later, the malignancy sets in.

Spray-Applied Insulation Containing Asbestos Fibers

If you live in a house made before 1980s or if you were a construction worker in that period, you are at risk for developing mesothelioma. Most so if you actually handled spray-applied insulation, blown-in insulation or spray-applied plasters or wall coatings at any time in your life. If yes, there is no doubt that you were exposed heavily to asbestos fibers, as it was not the done thing in those days to provide ‘asbestos workers’ with protective gear when they worked. As a result, you are very likely to develop symptoms of an asbestos-related disease. What appears to be an innocuous common cold that refuses to go away or a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath or chronic chest pain, could very likely be a symptom of mesothelioma of the lungs. It is essential to consult a doctor immediately so that some curative measures can be taken, if diagnosed in time.

Those living in houses with asbestos would do well to leave it alone; it causes no harm if left undisturbed. Experts recommend encapsulating the asbestos to prevent it from releasing asbestos fibers into the air and causing harm. In case of renovation, it is best to let professionals handle it.