At M3 Environmental LLC, we want to help you understand the questions you have about the health hazards in your environment like: “Am I at risk for asbestos exposure?” This chemical substance may be something you’ve only heard about on afternoon tv commercials or when you’ve rented an older home. So, we’re here to shed some light on exactly where you find asbestos and if you might be at risk for exposure.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a fire-resistant chemical fiber that was once used in everything from home insulation to military submarines. Unfortunately, the potential harm it can do to people who breathe in airborne fibers has made it necessary to regulate its use and handling over time. Asbestos can still be found in common construction materials and older homes, schools, and office buildings. So, it’s important to know your exposure risk and how you can protect yourself.
Common Asbestos Exposure Symptoms
There are different types of asbestos, but you are usually exposed to this substance in the same way. Disturbed fibers become airborne, and we breathe them in without realizing it. Some of the most common symptoms you might experience if you’ve been exposed to asbestos include the following:
- Wheezing And Shortness Of Breath
- A Persistent Cough
- Swelling Of Your Neck Or Face
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Appetite And Weight Loss
- Anemia
- Fatigue
Exposure At Work & At Home
You are most likely to experience asbestos exposure at work (occupational exposure) if you are employed in an asbestos-related field. Home renovations or being related to a worker in a field at high risk for asbestos exposure can also increase your risk. Fibers are brought home on clothing (secondary exposure). Living near large sites of naturally occurring asbestos or mining, milling, or factory operations can also increase your risk (environmental exposure). These are some of the other situations that may increase your exposure to asbestos:
- Natural Disasters
- Shipbuilding Occupations
- Roofers And Insulation Work
- Demolition Work
- Drywall Removal
- Firefighting Occupations
Protect Yourself With Asbestos Testing Services
If you are concerned about your risk for asbestos exposure, contact us at M3 Environmental LLC today. We provide a wide range of professional air quality testing services including asbestos testing. We can also provide you with asbestos awareness training for your staff to make sure everyone is up to date and on guard. We’re here to help you protect your families and your businesses in and around Monterey, CA.
