There are few materials that are as soundly demonized as asbestos. When it was discovered how asbestos was causing the deaths of workers and the public too. A movement began to remove asbestos wherever possible. Previously it had been considered a wonder material for both its strength and fire resistance; its properties were unmatched. But once it was determined to be dangerous, replacements for asbestos were developed and the material was banned for most uses by the late 20th century. However, there are still some situations where the properties of asbestos are considered irreplaceable and so the material can still be found in different products today.
- Insulation: Although it is not allowed to be used for residential purposes anymore. Many older homes still have asbestos insulation. Left in place asbestos poses little threat, but it is dangerous to enter a roof cavity that has asbestos, or to cut into walls that have this type of insulation. If you discover that your home may have asbestos insulation, you can get an estimate for the cleanup from asbestos removal companies in Perth. A quick Internet search will help to find qualified specialists, so you can make your home safe.
- Brakes and Other Vehicle Parts: The strength and heat resistant properties of asbestos makes it an ideal material for brakes and other high friction components. The downside of these applications is that the asbestos breaks down during use and is shed into the air we breathe. It also poses a danger to people who work in car repair, as the dust can build up on components. Workers can be exposed if they are not wearing proper breathing protection.
- Fireproof Materials: In some industries heat shielding is critically important and because of this asbestos is still being used. In the steel industry, for example, asbestos is used because it will not catch on fire and it can stand up to intense heat without breaking down or becoming deformed. It can also be used in fire resistant clothing. Although, modern materials are quickly replacing asbestos for these purposes.
Asbestos is no longer a popular material and most manufacturers do what they can to source other materials instead. However, it is still legal to use asbestos; if government mandated safety protocols are observed, and if it is not being used for purposes in which it has been banned. Asbestos is only dangerous as an airborne particle or when ingested. It is not toxic through exposure to the skin. But breathing protection should always be worn when asbestos is present.
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