Pipe Insulation in Homes May Expose People to Dangerous Asbestos Fibers

Cinnaminson, NJ, October 15, 2012
 
Many homes built up until the 1970s were constructed using insulating blankets and paper tape on their steam pipes, boilers and furnace ducts that contained asbestos. Due to the material’s strength, durability, and insulating fire resistant properties it was a popular choice and was installed in many homes and buildings.  Over time, these materials can become damaged and begin to degrade. When this occurs, cancer causing asbestos fibers may be released into the air. 
 
Many of these older homes have undergone renovation activities which have included replacing components of these properties that contained asbestos materials. Unfortunately, many times these projects were undertaken by homeowners and others who may not have realized that they were exposing themselves and the building occupants to asbestos fibers. 
 
Other properties are in need of renovations that may involve updating steam pipes, boilers and furnace ducts. It is important for properties owners to understand that removing or disturbing these types of materials may release asbestos fibers into the air.
 
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “If it is deteriorated -- broken and crumbling -- and it has to be removed, a certified asbestos contractor should be hired to do the job. The waste has to be handled according to requirements and disposed of in an approved hazardous waste landfill.”  There are regulations that control how asbestos laden materials are handled. 
 
“Asbestos blankets and paper tape are found in many older buildings even today,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, a leading asbestos testing laboratory. “People need to test to see if these or other suspect materials in their homes contain asbestos. If they do, a qualified asbestos professional should be hired to safely remove the materials. EMSL offers quick and affordable testing services to determine the presence of asbestos in all types of building materials to help prevent people from being exposed to this potentially deadly material,” he continued.
 
EMSL has sponsored an educational video about asbestos dangers in the home. It can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCpQYuK8ge8
 
People wishing to have their sample tested by EMSL should visit www.AsbestosTestingLab.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com