Why are asbestos fibres more dangerous when exposed to flames?
Knowing what we know now about the dangers of asbestos, it’s hard to believe it was once touted as a desirable material in thousands of products.
It’s even harder to believe that it was adored for its fire-resistant properties when we know now that it’s actually more of a hindrance than a help in a fiery situation. Confused? Read on to learn why asbestos fibres are more dangerous when exposed to flames.
How is Asbestos a Fire-Resistant Material?
Asbestos was being advertised as the latest and greatest material in the manufacturing world. It was durable, pliable, versatile, and, most importantly, affordable. But even though it was used in many applications, it wasn’t until the 1900s that it was seen as excellent for its fire-resistant properties.
Its chemical makeup meant that its melting point was 871 degrees, perfect for being able to withstand the intense heat that comes with fire. As soon as that was discovered, it became commonplace in the average firefighter’s breathing apparatus.
It also started being used in the manufacturing processes of roofing shingles, concrete, wallboard, fabric, cloth, and insulation and coating for homes. It was non-flammable, non-combustible, and strong. It would take a particularly intense fire to bring this material to its knees.
But it wasn’t infallible, and along with discovering that asbestos was dangerous, it was also discovered that was particularly dangerous when set alight.
Why Are Asbestos Fibres More Dangerous When Exposed to Flames?
Most asbestos removal experts in New Zealand and around the world agree that asbestos is only harmful to human health when exposed. When it’s left alone, and in excellent condition, it does not need to be removed. However, it’s always a good idea to touch base with your local asbestos removalist to make sure.
So, why is it that when it’s left alone, asbestos poses minimal risk, but when lit on fire, it’s a significant health hazard? It’s all in the fibres. When asbestos becomes damaged (through wear and tear and fire), the tiny fibres can be released into the air for people to swallow or inhale.
Over several years, usually around 20 to 30, those fibres start damaging the cells in your body, leading to cancer, inflammation, and other serious health conditions.
Rummaging through the remains of a fire might not seem like a risk, given that the fire is out. But if your home is built before 1990, there’s a genuine risk that some building materials, and even the kitchen and bathroom lino, may have caused asbestos fibres to be released into the air.
You might think that you can see the asbestos to be able to avoid it, but that’s not the case. Asbestos fibres are microscopic, which means that even thousands of fibres in a single cluster are still a mere speck. To spot that among the carnage of a house fire is impossible.
So, How Do I Enter A House After a Fire Safely?
Even though you may have been given the “all clear” by your local fire department to enter your home, it’s crucial to weigh up the risks. If your home is built before 1990, asbestos testing can be paramount. Otherwise, you can put yourself and your family at risk by rummaging through your possessions without protection
An asbestos expert near you can test the building materials and provide helpful advice on what to do next. Alternatively, you can invest in an approved P100 respirator, wear disposable coveralls and protective gloves, and use amended water before entering the home.
Amended water is liquid that has had a wetting agent added to it to allow it to penetrate asbestos. Its job is to weigh down the lightweight asbestos fibres so that they are easy to clean up from the ground, rather than run the risk of them remaining airborne.
Still, the safest decision is going to be speaking to the experts before trying to take care of the clean-up task on your own.
What Can Exposure to Asbestos Do?
It’s easy to get complacent about the risks of asbestos exposure when the fibres are so small that you can’t see them. After all, why should you be scared of something you can’t see? It’s important to understand that the fibres are responsible for tends of thousands of deaths every year, and can cause a myriad of different health conditions.
Mesothelioma, asbestosis, various cancers, pleural plaque, pleural thickening, and pleural effusion are all related to asbestos exposure. For most, if not all, asbestos-related illnesses, there is no cure.
Through house fires, renovations, or damaged asbestos building products, there is a genuine risk of asbestos exposure that can have long-lasting and potentially fatal consequences. If you’re not sure of the risk, don’t assume the best. Get in touch with your local asbestos removalist for peace of mind and to take care of business.