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Asbestos

Asbestos was used for years in a variety of industries like construction and shipbuilding, mainly for fire prevention, strengthening and insulating purposes. Today, however, asbestos is used far less and generally just for strengthening products and structures.

All forms of asbestos are considered to be carcinogenic and there are links between it and diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

If asbestos fibres are enclosed, or are tightly bound in asbestos siding or floor tiles, and if the products are in good condition, the risk from exposure is low for building occupants. On the other hand, if asbestos-containing materials have not been properly installed, or if asbestos-containing structures are not well maintained, fibres can be released into the air and pose potential health risks. Today, there are comprehensive municipal, provincial and federal regulations in place to reduce exposure to asbestos fibres, particularly in workplaces and public buildings, and in consumer products.

Read the following Health Canada Fact Sheets:

• It's Your Health: Health Risks of Asbestos
• It's Your Health: Vermiculite Insulation Containing Amphibole Asbestos