While asbestos has been largely eradicated in the manufacturing of products in the United States, it’s not entirely eradicated. It’s true that many modern products are still manufactured with small amounts of asbestos.

In most cases, these products will not cause any serious health problems. However, in some cases, they can still be harmful.

Here are 4 types of products which are made with asbestos. 

Building Products

While not all building products contain asbestos, many of them still do. In particular, siding, roofing, and flooring will often contain trace amounts of asbestos.

The individuals who can be most affected by these materials are generally those who manufacture them, and those who use them to build (ie. factory workers and construction workers).

To be safe, you’ll want to avoid using any asbestos-laden products when building; not only because they can be unhealthy, but because they can cause issues when a building is being demolished.

Commercial Soil

It may come as some surprise to you to hear that some commercial potting soils contain asbestos. The reason for this is summed up with one word: vermiculite.

Vermiculite is a natural mineral which sometimes used in potting soils because of its water-retaining abilities. The only problem with it is that it very often carries with it traces – and sometimes large amounts – of asbestos.

For the most part, potting soils which contain asbestos will not harm you. Again, the only individuals who are generally at risk are the ones who produce and work around the potting soil each and every day for hours on end.

Car Components

Another group of products which often contains asbestos is car components.

In general, the car products which contain asbestos are those ones which deal with a great amount of heat and friction. These types of products include brake pads, gaskets, insulation, and clutches, to name just a few.

Unfortunately, because so many car components contain asbestos, those who work with cars are extremely vulnerable to illness. Mesothelioma, in particular seems to afflict auto mechanics at a high rate.

Insulation

You may believe that insulation no longer contains any asbestos, but, unfortunately, you would be wrong. While not all insulations contain asbestos, some do still contain the potentially-harmful substance.

By law, today’s insulation can only consist of up to 1% asbestos. This generally will not cause any harm, unless of course you’re manufacturing it 8 hours a day and 5 days a week.

But it is still capable of intoxication. For this reason, you should try to avoid it at all costs. There are many non-asbestos insulation options available, all of which do as good as, or better a job than asbestos-laden insulations.

Are Products Made With Asbestos Dangerous?

In most cases, products made with asbestos will not harm you. However, if these products are disturbed in some manner, they can release asbestos into the air, allowing it to be inhaled through your mouth and nostrils. This is especially true if the asbestos is released into a confined area.

If your home is made of products which contain asbestos, you would be best-served by having them removed. This is the only way to ensure that you and your family will not be harmed.

However, asbestos removal is not a DIY project. In order to have it removed safely and adequately, you’ll need to call in professionals.

Live in the Chicago area? If so, we here at Axis Response Group are the people to call. We’ll remove the asbestos from your home in a safe and professional manner.

Contact us today to discuss your needs!