From Cigarettes to Children's Toys: The Unexpected Places Asbestos Lurked
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used for thousands of years due to its unique properties, such as its resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that asbestos began to be widely used in industrial and consumer products.
Asbestos was used in a wide range of products, some of which were quite unusual and unexpected. Below are a few examples.
Cosmetics: Asbestos was used in talcum powder and other cosmetics products as a filler and to absorb moisture. This was particularly dangerous as asbestos fibres can become airborne when the powder is applied, making it easy to inhale.
Hair Dryers and Curling Irons: Asbestos was used as insulation in hair dryers and curling irons to protect the electrical elements from heat. The asbestos fibres can become airborne when the appliances are used, putting users at risk of exposure.
Children's Toys: Asbestos was used in a variety of children's toys, such as toy ovens and irons, as well as in crayons and modelling clay. Children are particularly vulnerable to the dangers of asbestos exposure because their respiratory systems are still developing.
Clothes and Textile: Asbestos was used in fireproof clothing and textiles, such as firefighters' uniforms, as well as in curtains and other household textiles. Asbestos fibres can become airborne when these items are washed or handled, putting users at risk of exposure.
Artificial Snow: Asbestos was used in artificial snow products, such as the kind used in movie sets and Christmas decorations. When the snow is disturbed, the asbestos fibres can become airborne, putting those nearby at risk of exposure.
Car parts: Asbestos was used in car parts such as brake linings, gaskets, and even in hood liners to protect against heat and fire. The asbestos fibres can become airborne when the parts are handled or replaced, putting mechanics and other workers at risk of exposure.
Cigarette Filters: Asbestos was used in cigarette filters to reduce the burning rate of cigarettes and to absorb tar. This put smokers and those around them at risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.
Asbestos is now banned or restricted in many countries due to the health risks it poses, but it's still present in older buildings and products. If you suspect or know that your house or a building you frequent was built before the 1980s, it may contain asbestos, and it's advisable to have a professional asbestos inspection to ensure safety.
That's why at Agility, we are dedicated to providing safe and efficient asbestos removal services for your peace of mind. Trust the experts at Agility for all your asbestos removal needs in the Wellington region. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and quote.