Asbestos
About
Asbestos is the name given to six minerals that occur naturally in the environment as bundles of fibers that can be separated into thin, durable threads for use in commercial and industrial applications. These fibers are resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals and do not conduct electricity. For these reasons, asbestos has been used widely in many industries. Asbestos minerals are divided into two major groups: Serpentine asbestos and amphibole asbestos. Serpentine asbestos includes the mineral chrysotile, which has long, curly fibers that can be woven. Chrysotile asbestos is the form that has been used most widely in commercial applications. Amphibole asbestos includes the minerals actinolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, crocidolite, and amosite. Amphibole asbestos has straight, needle-like fibers that are more brittle than those of serpentine asbestos and are more limited in their ability to be fabricated.
Health Hazards of Exposure to Asbestos
If products containing asbestos are disturbed, tiny asbestos fibers are released into the air. When asbestos fibers are breathed in, they may get trapped in the lungs and remain there for a long time. Over time, these fibers can accumulate and cause scarring and inflammation, which can affect breathing and lead to serious health problems. Three of the major health effects associated with asbestos exposure are lung cancer, mesothelioma and Asbestos. Several factors can help to determine how asbestos exposure affects an individual, including dose (how much asbestos an individual was exposed to), duration (how long an individual was exposed), size & shape and chemical makeup of the asbestos fibers, source of the exposure, individual risk factors & genetic factors.
For more information on these and other health effects of asbestos exposure, see the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registrywebsite.
Asbestos on Campus
Building that were built prior to 1981 may contain asbestos building materials. If you suspect a material in your area may contain asbestos and it appears damaged or in disrepair, contact EH&S at 951-827-5528.
Campus Asbestos Notification
The Annual campus Asbestos Notification contains general information about asbestos on campus.
Asbestos Waste Disposal
Disposal of all asbestos containing waste materials (debris, equipment, Transite pipe, etc) must be coordinated with the Environmental Health & Safety Office. Please contact EH&S at 951-827- 5528 for assistance.