The fiber sizes found in most batt insulations are too large to be inhaled deeply into the lungs, however, blow-in fiberglass products may contain particles of similar size to asbestos fibers. These can be inhaled deeply into the lungs where they can lodge, possibly resulting in malignancy. Ken Roberts, an Environmental Services Manager for Manville Corporation, a Denver based fiberglass insulation manufacturer, points out that when asbestos gets into the lungs, it remains unchanged, thus, it can cause damage during the entire life of the victim. On the other hand, he says that fiberglass is eventually dissolved by body fluids, thus it should be of less concern than asbestos. Richard Munson, head of Victims of Fiberglass, an Auburn, California group formed to make the public aware of the dangers of this material, believes that this should cause more concern.
Cytotoxins kill living cells.
Richard Munson, through Victims of Fiberglass, vigorously attacks fiberglass through bulk mailings, newspaper articles, conferences, and television programs. At the same time, he preaches about the virtues of cellulose insulation, another popular residential product. It's like motherhood and apple pie. Munson has a vested interest in condemning fiberglass and promoting cellulose. He also heads a cellulose trade organization called National Consumer Products Marketing Inc., and he is president of a company that manufactures cellulose insulation.