Asbestos,
a naturally occurring mineral fiber, was added to over 3000 products used in the
construction of public/commercial buildings and industrial facilities for over
a century. When released from these products the invisible, microscopic fibers
can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion and settle deep into the respiratory
system or digestive tract. The exposure to asbestos fibers in the past, especially
by the workers installing or disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACM) has
caused an epidemic of death and disease from asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Because of the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers to both workers and the general
public, the US EPA and OSHA require that the professionals who identify, plan
and carry out renovation or demolition operations that involve ACM be properly
trained and certified. |