The dangers of Asbestos The dangers of Asbestos Until 1972, most of the buildings in this country were constructed with asbestos, including schools, offices and homes. At the time, know one had any idea that when inhaled asbestos was deadly. Today, people and asbestos precariously coexist in old buildings. However, it is only when asbestos is disturbed that it becomes a health threat to human beings. Asbestos is a naturally occurring material that was used commonly in buildings for insulation.
Asbestos fibers are exceptionally strong and are resistant to heat.
Asbestos is commonly found in ceiling tiles, flooring and pipes. Asbestos only becomes a danger when it is disturbed, causing the fibers to become airborne. This is commonly referred to as friable asbestos, while intact asbestos is referred to as non-friable asbestos. Friable asbestos has become airborne and the human lungs are now susceptible to breathing in the airborne fibers. Doctors often compare the dangers associated with asbestos to those of smoking cigarettes.