Asbestos Concerns Following the Wake of Hurricane Sandy

Cinnaminson, NJ, December 20, 2012
 
Hurricane Sandy left a path of destruction across many parts of heavily populated areas along the coasts of New Jersey and New York. Some estimates have put the total property destruction due to Hurricane Sandy at $20 billion.
 
Many of these damaged areas are currently in the process of demolition and rebuilding. Health expert have been warning people to be on the lookout for asbestos containing materials during this process.  Many of the buildings damaged by Hurricane Sandy were constructed before the use of asbestos in building materials was banned, so they may contain asbestos in a wide variety of building materials that can be found both inside and outside of the property.
 
Even the process of drying out one of these damaged buildings can release asbestos fibers into the air. If not conducted properly, the drying process can result in airborne contaminants being spread throughout a property, even into areas not damaged by the storm. 
 
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “Exposure to airborne friable asbestos may result in a potential health risk because persons breathing the air may breathe in asbestos fibers. Continued exposure can increase the amount of fibers that remain in the lung. Fibers embedded in lung tissue over time may cause serious lung diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma.”
 
One of the leading asbestos testing laboratories in North America is EMSL Analytical, Inc. “People really need to be aware of possible asbestos hazards in their properties,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical. “This is especially true for homeowners who are taking on the task of fixing their properties themselves, who may not realize that they may be exposing themselves, their family, or others to dangerous asbestos fibers.  EMSL offers quick and affordable testing services to determine the presence of asbestos in all types of building materials.”
 
EMSL has sponsored an educational video about hazards, such as asbestos, that can result from property damage after a storm such as Hurricane Sandy. It can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64u9RNPKbtI
 
People wishing to have their asbestos samples 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