This information is also available in an Adobe Acrobat PDF document . You will need the free Acrobat Reader software , available from Adobe's web site , to view it. Information presented in this publication is intended to provide a general understanding of the statutory and regulatory requirements governing managing asbestos. This information is not intended to replace, limit or expand upon the complete statutory and regulatory requirements found in the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and Title 35 of the Illinois Administrative Code. This fact sheet applies to privately owned homes and apartments with four or less units.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in certain rocks.
This mineral separates into strong, thin fibers that are not visible to the naked eye. As a fireproofing material applied on steel beams and columns during construction of multistory homes As a thermal insulation and as a means of controlling condensation As an ingredient in acoustical plaster As a component of a mixture of sprayed on ceilings and walls to produce a soft, textured appearance. ACM can be friable or nonfriable. When dry, nonfriable ACM cannot be crumbled or reduced to a powder by hand pressure. If ACM is in good condition and left in place, it should not present health risks.