Environmental Hazard: the Presence of Asbestos in Dust and Soil
A Health Care Article Contributed by Diana l.m.I. Dawson
Asbestos Particles in the Soil
Some areas of soil contain high amounts of asbestos, which can be transferred to your home or other areas through a variety of avenues. These contaminants can be brought into your home on shoes, clothing, hair or hands by simply walking through an exposed area of soil that has a high asbestos content. Pets may also transfer asbestos particles on their feet and fur.
When a person or animal has been exposed to these contaminants, asbestos can be spread throughout the house unless affected clothing is removed and thoroughly cleaned and exposed skin (or fur, if a pet has been contaminated) is carefully washed. Since footwear can serve as a collector of asbestos particles, it's best to have shoes removed before entering the house. For those homes which don't include a mud room, those who enter can simply remove their footgear on the mat outside the door.
What to do If You Suspect the Presence of Asbestos
If you suspect that asbestos may be present in the soil surrounding your home, contact the local Department of Health for information on obtaining a soil test. If, after necessary tests have been performed, it is discovered that there's a high level of asbestos in the soil, Department of Health officials will instruct you on necessary steps to be taken in order to remove the potential hazard. This agency will also be prepared to assist you with questions and concerns that may involve the contamination of your home's interior.
Precautions Against Asbestos Contamination from Soil
One of the best ways to protect yourself against possible asbestos contaminants that may be contained within the soil on your property is to take steps to cover any open areas of soil around your home. Shrubbery, basic land cover or other types of greenery that won't require ongoing maintenance will serve this purpose.
Don't allow your children or pets to go near an area outside of your range of property that may contain open soil areas which could include asbestos. Upon entering your home, instruct them to thoroughly wash their faces and hands, in the event that they may have become exposed to asbestos in the environment without their knowledge.
Keep the interior of the house clean and as dust-free as possible, since dust from asbestos can be brought in from outdoors by anyone entering the home. Keep in mind that asbestos is an inhalant and will attack the respiratory system of anyone who inhales particles of this mineral.
If anyone in your home exhibits signs of respiratory ailment, including shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, chest pains or prolonged laryngitis, contact your doctor immediately. Tests can be administered that are designed to detect the presence of asbestos in the body. In the case of contamination, an early diagnosis can lead to a lesser impact on the quality of the victim's life and may prolong an otherwise much shortened lifespan after the exposure to asbestos has become an issue.
