What is asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a group of natural, fibrous minerals that perform a variety of functions. Their unique properties made them widely used in many products and trades, including the construction and garment industry. Its heavy-duty, non-combustible fibres once made it an ideal material for insulation against heat and electricity, while its crystals with silky fibres can be sewn into fabric or spun into yarn.
There are two groups of asbestos used for commercial purposes. Amphibole asbestos is more potent than chrysotile asbestos because the fibres tend to cling longer to the lungs and are more likely to inflict harm. More regulations are in place to control and reduce the use of amphibole asbestos.
How long has asbestos been used in Canada?
Asbestos mines first opened for business in Quebec in the 1870s. Though concern over the health hazards it posed began to pop up as early as the mid-1900s, it wasn’t until the 1980s that it was no longer used as material to construct schools, public buildings and homes.
Canada has yet to join more than 50 countries that have banned the use of asbestos. It continues to be an exporter of asbestos, even as operations across the country have folded. The last remnants of this export industry are located in Quebec-only the Jeffrey Mine and the Lac d’amiante du Canada are left.
What are the diseases associated with asbestos?
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 107,000 people a year die of diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer due to asbestos exposure.
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Asbestosis is a type of lung disease that develops when asbestos fibres are inhaled in large quantities; it inflicts the lungs with scars and makes it difficult to breathe.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer found in the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity.
What are the health risks related to asbestos?
Health Canada states that the amount of asbestos contained in a product does not determine the level of risk. Asbestos can pose health risks if a large concentration of fibres are released into the air people breathe. Health risks also hinge on the duration and the frequency of the exposure and the size of the fibres inhaled. If packed tightly or embedded in a compound, the product does not pose a significant threat.
Work Environment
Those working in an industry that produce and use asbestos are most at risk. Prolonged exposure over time can cause fatal diseases. Stricter regulations in workers’ occupational environment, along with a ban on the use of amphibole asbestos have minimized the level of risk.
Natural Environment
Small quantities of asbestos fibres are detectable in soil, water and air, coming from both the natural and man-made environments. Although the concentration of fibres is about ten times lower in rural areas than large cities, Health Canada asserts their levels are low enough not to pose as a significant threat.
Buildings and Home Environment
Asbestos performed a variety of purposes in the construction industry. It was used as an ingredient for materials such as insulation boards, asbestos cement, floor and ceiling tiles.
The fibres in these products are tightly bound and only pose a significant degree of risk when the materials are cut, deteriorate or are damaged.
What precautions can people take to minimize their exposure?
Homeowners are advised to consult an experienced contractor to determine the level of asbestos present in the house and best course of action. If asbestos is found, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) recommends sealing the surface as a temporary measure. (add a hyperlink)
Construction workers are instructed to avoid disturbing insulation that has been damaged and to report it to their manager. People handling or working with asbestos are also expected to wear protective clothing, a mask and gloves.
With files from The Canadian Press.
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