Natural Disasters
Asbestos is a known human carcinogen and can cause chronic lung disease as well as lung and other cancers.
How are asbestos & natural disasters related?
Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, tornadoes, etc.) can destroy homes and buildings which can then lead to asbestos materials being exposed and its fibers released.
The EPA states, “elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur if asbestos-containing materials present in many older homes are disturbed. If you know or suspect that your home contains asbestos or lead-based paint and any of these materials have been damaged or will otherwise be disturbed during cleanup, seek the assistance of public health authorities and try to obtain help from specially trained contractors, if available.”
Cleanup and rehabilitation activities can pose health hazards due to the possible presence of asbestos. Asbestos can be present in many types of building materials, such as: wrapping around pipes, drywall taping, popcorn ceiling materials, attic insulation and much more. The first concern, however, is safety for you and your family members. Do not allow children to participate in disaster response cleanup. Inhaling asbestos fibers released from demolition, renovation, and handling of asbestos is dangerous. We strongly encourage you to engage a licensed or certified asbestos abatement contractor to do any work involving asbestos.
When residences containing asbestos are renovated or torn down, or when the asbestos is disturbed, minute asbestos fibers may be released into the air. These fibers are so small that they often cannot be seen with the naked eye and can be inhaled without one even knowing, underscoring how dangerous asbestos can really be.
According to the EPA, the manufacture, importation, processing and distribution in commerce of these products, as well as some others not listed, are not banned. The list below does not include every product that may contain asbestos, but these are the most common. • Pipe and boiler and duct coverings (thermal system insulation) • Roofing, shingles and siding • Floor tiles and vinyl flooring, backing and mastic • Vermiculite attic insulation • Plaster, cement, putties and caulk • Ceiling tiles and spray-on coatings (acoustic and fireproofing) • Textured paints • Heat-resistant textiles
How can Homeowner's and Renter's prevent Asbestos exposure After Disaster?
Wear personal protective equipment. OSHA and health agencies recommend using a properly fitted NIOSH‑approved respirator (such as an N100 or P100) and protective clothing (gloves, boots, long sleeves, and, when possible, disposable coveralls) when you are in areas with ash, dust, or debris that could contain asbestos.
Avoid disturbing dust and debris. Do not sweep or dry‑vacuum ash or building debris, and avoid cutting, breaking, or sanding damaged materials; if you must move debris that could contain asbestos, lightly mist it with water first to help keep dust down.
Know the law. There are strict local, state and federal requirements for asbestos inspection, removal and disposal that trained, licensed professionals must follow; contact your local health, air quality, or building department before starting cleanup or repairs if you suspect asbestos‑containing materials.
Keep people and pets away from contaminated areas. Follow evacuation and re‑entry guidance from local authorities, keep children and pets out of damaged structures and off fire‑damaged soil, and avoid tracking ash and dust into living spaces by changing clothes and shoes used in the cleanup area.
Use portable generators carefully, outside and away from the home, to avoid CO poisoning and fires. Place generators well away from doors, windows and vents, and never use them inside a home, garage, or other enclosed or partially enclosed space.
HOW TO FIND OUT IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM
The only way to find out if your home has asbestos is to have a sample analyzed at a laboratory. Inspections to determine the presence of asbestos must be performed by certified asbestos inspectors.
The Environmental Information Association (EIA) is a leading nonprofit trade organization representing professionals across the environmental remediation industry, including contractors, consultants, laboratories, training providers, regulators, and equipment suppliers. Through its “Find an Expert” resource, users can connect with qualified professionals in categories such as consultants, contractors, government, insurance and bonding, laboratories, legal and financial services, manufacturers and distributors, training providers, and more. For asbestos testing, abatement, and related environmental services, EIA offers a reliable pathway to vetted expertise across the full lifecycle of remediation. Other resources on our website include a brochure entitled "Asbestos In Your Home" and our "Managing Asbestos in Buildings" guide. You can count on EIA for all the information you need regarding asbestos.
Requirements will vary by jurisdiction. Check with state and local environmental, safety and permitting agencies for specific requirements in your area.