The Importance of Professional Asbestos Testing
According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2019 American Community Survey, over half of the homes still standing in the U.S. were constructed before 1980, a significant year that marks the decline in the use of asbestos in building materials. What's more, about 12% of these homes date back to before 1940. This means that a majority of U.S. residences potentially harbor asbestos within their walls, floors, ceilings, insulation, pipes, and even electrical systems. If these homes haven't seen a major update in the last 30 years, the risk they pose isn't just theoretical; it's real. Asbestos, when it begins to degrade, becomes a silent predator, releasing fibers that can lead to severe health issues, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and several forms of lung cancer.
How Do You Test For Asbestos?
Testing for asbestos is something you can't just guess about; you need to know for sure if it's there, especially if your home is old or you're thinking about making renovations. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the only surefire way to determine if a home contains asbestos is by getting it tested by a professional. Identifying asbestos quickly is essential for limiting exposure that can otherwise lead to several life-threatening diseases. Additionally, there may be regulations for asbestos testing and removal that could lead to fines or other legal consequences if you are not in compliance with these regulations.
Harmful Effects Of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was commonly used in the construction of homes and buildings until the 1980s, when it was outlawed due to the negative health effects its fibers can cause when they are inhaled and swallowed by people. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to several serious, potentially life-threatening health conditions, including:
- Mesothelioma: A cancerous tumor found on the lining of the lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs.
- Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition caused by prolonged exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibers.
- Lung Cancer: Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can irritate lung tissue, leading to the development of cancerous cells.
Contact DCM Environmental Testing Co!
If you believe your home or business may contain asbestos, it's crucial for the health and safety of your family to test for it as soon as possible! At DCM Environmental, we provide Massachusetts and the surrounding region with professional, unbiased testing services for asbestos and other hazardous materials. Contact us today to learn more or get a free asbestos testing estimate by calling us at (617) 481-5782 or by filling out the contact form on our website!
