Hurricane Sandy Victims Reminded of Asbestos Hazards during Reconstruction

Nov. 19, 2012 - PRLog -- Many areas hard hit by Hurricane Sandy are beginning to rebuild and repair the countless homes and properties damaged by the historic storm.  As cleanout and construction activities continue, residents across the Mid-Atlantic are being reminded that many older properties may contain asbestos which could be released into the air.

Most products made today do not contain asbestos. However, until the 1970s, many different building products used in homes and commercial buildings did contain asbestos.  “For property owners with older structures damaged by Hurricane Sandy, concerns over asbestos exposure are real,” reported Susan White, Ph.D., CMC, President of Sussex Environmental Health Consultants (SEHC), a Delaware based environmental consulting firm.  “You cannot tell whether a material contains asbestos simply by looking at it unless it is labeled, which is rarely the case. If unsure, treat the material as if it contains asbestos or have it sampled and analyzed by a qualified professional. A professional should be tasked with taking samples for analysis because they know what to look for, and because there may be an increased health risk if asbestos fibers are released during sampling if done incorrectly.”

Exposure to asbestos fibers is known to cause serious health hazards including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.  These conditions may not appear for years or even decades after exposure.
 
SEHC provides comprehensive indoor air quality (IAQ) investigations for asbestos and both microbial and chemical contaminants.   They recently sponsored an online video about asbestos and what to do if you suspect it may be in your home.  It can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/MqSn_OCATLk



To learn more about SEHC’s asbestos, IAQ, environmental, or health and safety services, please visit http://www.sussexenvironmental.com, email susan.white@mchsi.com or call (302) 947-1810.
 
About Sussex Environmental Health Consultants, LLC
SEHC is a certified woman owned business that provides environmental and health and safety consulting services.  The company is located in the Mid-Atlantic and services customers nationwide.  SEHC provides solutions to clients ranging from homeowners to Fortune 500 Corporations.