Updated: Sep 26, 2023
The threat of asbestos-induced illness and disease is ever prevalent, and understanding what to look out for and the options for cavity wall extraction are vital in this unnerving carcinogenic climate.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a collection of six naturally occurring minerals and is made up of tiny, fine fibres. Asbestos is sturdy, fireproof, and resistant to chemicals, heat, and fire. As a result, asbestos became a widely used additive in countless products. People who have been or are currently exposed to asbestos run the risk of developing diseases like mesothelioma.
The Dangers of Asbestos to One’s Health
Inhaling asbestos fibres over a long period of time eventually results in lung scarring. This disease is known as asbestosis,
The symptoms of these are as follows:
– A chronic cough, wheezing, and significant weariness
– In more severe cases, discomfort in the shoulder or chest, as well as clubbed (swollen) fingers
– Breathing difficulty
The onset of symptoms might take 20 to 30 years.
What are the 6 Primary Types of Asbestos?
- Actinolite – Actinolite asbestos often has a dark colour. It was most often used in plasterboard, cement, paints, sealants and insulation products.
- Amosite – This asbestos is the second most prevalent form of asbestos and accounts for around 5% of asbestos used in the US.
- Anthophyllite – Although it wasn’t often utilised in consumer goods, anthophyllite asbestos may have been present in some cement and insulating components.
- Chrysotile – This is the most popular kind of asbestos, sometimes referred to as white asbestos. It makes up 90% to 95% of the asbestos found in American structures. Chrysotile asbestos was historically employed in a wide range of asbestos insulation and fireproofing goods.
- Crocidolite – Is also referred to as blue asbestos. It is less often used than other varieties and less heat resistant. Products including cement, tiles, and insulating materials are often inclusive of this type of asbestos.
- Tremolite – It ranges in colour from milky white to dark green. Paint, sealants, and plumbing supplies are examples of products that may have included tremolite asbestos.
Cavity Wall Extraction Due to Old Asbestos Insulation
At UK Energy Management we offer a cavity wall extraction service which is inclusive of removing old insulation which may be declining in efficiency or be at risk of containing asbestos if the insulation is very old. You can find out more about this service here.
If you would like to find out more about our cavity wall removal or whether you are applicable for government funding please call us on 0191 466 1185 for further advice from our expert team.
