Fireproof Clothing and Asbestos
One of the most ancient uses of asbestos was in fireproof clothing. The fire-resistant properties of asbestos meant that it could be used as protective clothing for fires, but unfortunately this also exposed the wearers to an increased risk of Mesothelioma.
The History of Asbestos Fireproof Clothing
About 2000 years ago, the Greeks used asbestos in the clothing of imported slaves and came to realize its benefits in terms of fire-resistance. The ancient Romans also used tablecloths and napkins made of asbestos, which they could throw into the fire and they would then come out cleaner. In more recent times, asbestos has also been used in fire blankets and in fireproof clothing, especially for firefighters.The Dangers of Asbestos Fireproof Clothing
Since the time of the Greeks though, people have realized that there is an increased danger of using fireproof clothing containing asbestos. Strabo and Pliny the Elder, both recognized that the material used in the slaves’ clothing harmed their lungs. In 1897, a Viennese doctor claimed that a case of pulmonary problems was due to the inhalation of asbestos dust, and the first asbestos-related death was documented in 1906. In recent times, there has been an increasing awareness of the dangers of asbestos, and more and more countries are thus moving to ban asbestos containing materials.Chrysotile Asbestos and Fireproof Clothing
Chrysotile asbestos (“white” asbestos) is most commonly used to make fireproof clothing as it is the safest asbestos available. In fact, it is the only one still being used in some countries such as America and Europe. Although there is less risk involved with this type of asbestos, the World Health Organization still considers there to be a risk involved in its use and that it is best to be avoided where possible.Asbestos fireproof clothing has been used since the ancient Greeks and Romans and until recently was still used in fire blankets and fireproof clothing for firefighters. Fireproof clothing is generally made from the safest kind of asbestos, namely Chrysotile or “white” asbestos, but it is still thought to pose certain dangers, and where possible should thus be avoided.






