Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals. There are six minerals in the group consisting of crocidolite, chrysotile, amosite, and the fibrous varieties of anthophyllite, actinolite, and tremolite. Its crystals form long, thin fibers. Thus, you will find them in our environment no matter where you are. We are all exposed to low levels of asbestos from the air we breathe in, but the level rises in cities and industrial areas.

How Asbestos Dangerous to Human Health?

Asbestos in itself is not a dangerous component, but when it is disturbed it releases minute fibers into the air, which on entering our bodies can cause dangerous diseases like Mesothelioma, a type of cancer.

Where Is Asbestos Found?

Buildings that are owned by local governments may very well contain asbestos-containing materials (ACM) or asbestos. The asbestos minerals or ACM are used in building materials, cements, pipes for construction, electrical/telecommunication services etc. They are also used for insulation and as a fire retardant. In government buildings built prior to 1981, asbestos can be found in ceiling tiles, most 9" floor tiles, and a few 12" floor tiles. Apart from these places, they are commonly found in products such as:

- Brake linings and clutch pads
- Joint compound in older buildings and homes
- Wall and ceiling texture in older buildings and homes
- Sprayed-on insulation and fireproofing in buildings
- Cements (such as in chemical carrying cement pipes), caulks, and putties
- Insulation for boilers and pipes
- Roofing shingles
- Wall and ceiling insulation
- Ceiling tiles, floor tiles
- Siding shingles on old residential buildings

Regulations For Containing Asbestos

Asbestos fibers, when encapsulated, do not impact human health or the environment. But, when renovation or demolition takes place, asbestos fibers may be released. Proper disposal of asbestos can protect the environment. The EPA has a number of regulations regarding the matter. Some of the regulations are stated below:

- Regulated under Comprehensive Environmental Response/ Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). Deals with maintenance and repair.
- Regulated under Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Deals in maintenance and repair.
- Regulated under the ESA. Deals in new construction
- Regulated under the CAA. Deals in new construction, maintenance and repair, renovation and demolition.
- Regulated under the Rivers and Harbors Act. Deals in new construction
- Regulated under NEPA. Deals in new construction

The good news about this is that the government is seriously looking into the matter but they still have a long way to go.