What does inhaling asbestos feel like?

The most common signs of asbestos exposure include shortness of breath, cough and chest pain. Pleural plaques are a sign that a person had enough exposure to be at risk of other diseases. They may develop prior to mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Can you be tested for exposure to asbestos?

A lung biopsy, which detects microscopic asbestos fibers in pieces of lung tissue removed by surgery, is the most reliable test to confirm exposure to asbestos (2). A bronchoscopy is a less invasive test than a biopsy and detects asbestos fibers in material that is rinsed out of the lungs (2).

How much asbestos is in cement pipes?

It has been reported2 that asbestos-containing cement pipes consist of 15-20 percent asbestos, thus meeting the definition of an asbestos-containing material (ACM), which means any material containing more than one percent asbestos (reference 1926.1101 (b)).

How do you get rid of asbestos in water lines?

The most common solutions to resolve asbestos in water lines utilize trenchless technology. Pipe bursting only requires two small wells dug at the beginning and end of the line. One hole allows insertion of the breaking tool and new line. The other allows for retrieval of the device and any old pipe pieces it pushes out.

Can asbestos be inserted into an existing pipe?

Insertion into the existing pipe occurs without having to expose the plumbing and workers do not have to worry about accidentally inhaling fibers. Once inside, the lining hardens and offers a smooth, clean interior for water to travel through. Asbestos from the existing pipe cannot penetrate the lining.

What class of asbestos work is asbestos pipe removal?

Removal of asbestos cement (AC) pipe is normally Class II asbestos work, as this activity involves the removal of ACM that is not thermal system insulation or surfacing material.