Asbestos is a mineral that was used in construction and insulation materials before it was banned in Canada in 1988. Though it has been in the news for years, asbestos is still unknown to many people. Asbestos can cause serious health problems like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, so it’s important to be aware of potential risks if you’re working with or around this material. Read on for more information about asbestos and its effects on the body.
Asbestos in Calgary Commercial Buildings – The Risks and How it Affects the Body
Asbestos was once a common building material due to its affordability and fire-resistant properties. It is now known that asbestos exposure can lead to several serious health problems, including lung cancer. If you plan a commercial construction or building in Calgary, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos and take steps to protect your tenants and employees.
Did you Know: What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is comprised of long, thin fibers. These fibers are resistant to heat, fire, and chemical damage, which made them a popular choice for use in insulation, flooring, and other building materials. Despite its widespread use, asbestos is a known carcinogen that can cause lung cancer and other serious health problems.
How Does Asbestos Affect the Body?
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and other tissues. The body is unable to break down or expel these fibers, which can lead to inflammation and scarring. Over time, this inflammation and scarring can lead to the development of lung cancer and other diseases.
People exposed to higher levels of asbestos fibers are at an increased risk of developing health problems. Those who smoke cigarettes are also at a higher risk, as smoking damages the lungs and makes them more susceptible to asbestos-related damage.
What Are the Risks of Asbestos Exposure in Calgary Commercial Buildings?
If your commercial building was constructed before 1990, there’s a good chance that it contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). While asbestos-containing materials are not necessarily dangerous if they’re in good condition and left undisturbed, they can become a problem if they’re damaged or disturbed in some way. For example, if ACMs are damaged during a renovation or demolition project, the asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose a serious health risk to anyone in the area.
It’s essential to have your commercial building inspected for ACMs by a qualified professional before beginning any type of work that could disturb them. If ACMs are found, it’s essential to follow all safety protocols when removing or repairing them to minimize the risk of exposure.
Conclusion:
Asbestos was once a common building material due largely to its affordability and fire-resistant properties. However, we now know that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health problems like lung cancer. If you own a commercial building in Calgary, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos and take steps to protect your tenants and employees from exposure.
