What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made of flexible fibers that are resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion. These properties make the mineral useful. However, exposure to asbestos is highly toxic.

Asbestos was commonly used in construction as an insulator and could be added to materials like fabric, paper, cement, plastic, and others to strengthen them. If asbestos dust is inhaled, the fibers can remain trapped in the body, causing long-term health issues.

Exposure to asbestos can cause cancer and other diseases, including the aggressive mesothelioma. Asbestos also causes asbestosis, a lung disease. More than 50 countries now ban the use of asbestos.

Where is asbestos found?

Asbestos has been used in products such as pipe insulation, ceiling tiles, and water pipes. People have been exposed to it through jobs in mining, manufacturing, or construction that involve asbestos-containing products.

• Mining, transportation, dock workers
• Manufacturing asbestos-containing products
• Construction work, renovations
• Working in areas with crumbling asbestos

Even people indirectly exposed, such as family members of workers, are at risk.

Where does asbestos come from?

Asbestos was used as a building material between the 1930s and 1980s. It has been banned in Switzerland since 1989. The main exporters are Russia, Kazakhstan, and China.

Asbestos in homes

Many older buildings are undergoing asbestos removal due to the presence of asbestos. Landlords are required to provide habitable spaces. If you suspect asbestos, the landlord is responsible for conducting tests and resolving the issue.

To ensure your home is asbestos-free, it's best to conduct an asbestos analysis as soon as possible.