What are the most common myths about asbestos?

MYTH: Chrysotile asbestos is safe.

FACT: Since 95% of all asbestos used in the U.S. is chrysotile asbestos, it would be cheaper for businesses and less worrisome for the general public if this type of material was noncarcinogenic. However, medical researchers have linked all types of asbestos, including chrysotile, to asbestos diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Therefore, any asbestos-containing material must be treated as hazardous and dealt with according to local, state, and federal laws.

MYTH: You can tell that a material contains asbestos just by looking at it.

FACT: Asbestos was used in over 3,500 different construction materials and consumer products between 1920-1978. Because asbestos took so many different forms, it is not possible to tell if something contains asbestos just by looking at it. The only way to tell for sure if a material contains asbestos is to have a sample of it tested at a lab. Always have suspect materials tested before beginning any renovation or remodeling project.

FACT: Disturbing asbestos-containing materials may release fibers into the air, which, if inhaled or swallowed can cause serious diseases. Removal of asbestos without proper training, equipment, or safety precautions may also cause asbestos fibers to contaminate large areas of a home, school, or workplace. Therefore, asbestos-containing materials should only be handled by certified asbestos abatement professionals who are specially trained to deal with asbestos .

FACT: The latency period for the development of asbestos disease is generally 10-40 years after the initial exposure. Although it is possible for the latency period to be shorter. Asbestos-related diseases do not develop in a few hours or days like a cold or the flu.

FACT: Asbestos diseases are not caused by viruses and are not, therefore, contagious. Asbestos diseases are caused by the body's reactions to asbestos fibers that may be breathed in or swallowed. It is possible, however, for people who work around asbestos to expose their spouses and children to significant levels of asbestos fibers brought home on their work clothes. Asbestos contaminated clothes should not be worn home and should never be washed in the household washing machine.

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