Asbestos and Fire: Protecting Lives or Posing Risks?

Asbestos and Fire: Protecting Lives or Posing Risks?

Once considered a lifesaving shield against fire, asbestos has carried a hidden danger that would change its legacy forever. Its use has sparked debates, regulations, and urgent efforts to eliminate its risks. But is asbestos a protector or a threat? Let’s dive in!

What is Asbestos?

This is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral, known for its high resistance to heat, fire, electricity, chemicals and biological degradation. It was very popular in the years of the past and widely used in matters relating to fire, such as fireproofing building materials, protective gear, pipes and ducts, industrial equipment and electrical systems.

Why Was Asbestos Used for Fireproofing?

• High Heat Resistance: Asbestos has a high melting point, able to withstand temperatures of up to 1000°C Its fibrous structure remains stable under extreme heat, making it ideal to contain fires.
• Non-Combustible: Asbestos doesn’t catch fire or release flammable gases, as its fibers trap air, creating a natural insulator. This means it could therefore be used in ceilings, walls, and roofs to prevent heat transfer and reduce fire damage.
• Durability: Asbestos is strong and resistant to corrosion, making it versatile and durable in harsh industrial environments.
• Affordability: Asbestos was cheap and widely available, making it an affordable option for use in construction and industrial settings, especially from the 1950s to 1980s.

These qualities earned asbestos the moniker “miracle mineral”. However, this fireproofing masked a growing crisis.

The Hidden Danger.

Despite its numerous benefits, asbestos became infamous because of serious health risks it brought. Asbestos is carcinogenic in nature, and in case an object containing asbestos breaks down, say a roof containing asbestos collapses or burns, microscopic fibers will be released in the air. When inhaled, those exposed to it become at risk of getting diseases such as mesothelioma (A rare and aggressive cancer that forms on the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen), asbestosis (A chronic lung disease characterised by scarring of the lung tissue, leading to difficulty breathing), pleural abnormalities (Thickening of the lining of the lungs), and even lung cancer.

This becomes even more challenging for firefighters as their operations expose them greatly to the risk of inhaling those microscopic fibers. The old fire stations, fire trucks and firefighting gear contain asbestos, increasing exposure to them. According to Asbestos.com, cancer is the No. 1 occupational cause of death for career firefighters, and also firefighters are 2.29 times more likely to develop mesothelioma due to exposure (source). The WHO estimates over 200,000 annual deaths from asbestos, a risk heightened from fires. It is even more dangerous, as the first symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may take up to decades after exposure before appearing, making early detection even more difficult.

What Has Been Done About It?

A lot of countries have taken the positive steps in curbing the asbestos problem by actualising the following steps:

• Bans and Restrictions on Asbestos Use: Over 60 countries have banned asbestos use in constructions of their buildings’ walls and roofs. This decision helps to reduce exposure in the long term, especially in scenarios where a building or a roof collapses or catches fire. The Kenya’s 2006 Ban on importation, manufacture and use of asbestos and the 2025 Mandate for nationwide removal of asbestos roofing from all buildings have been efforts made by the Kenyan Government to help curb the asbestos problem.
• Regulatory Standards: Strict protocols have been enforced in fire departments on how to handle asbestos-contaminated sites. This helps protect the people working around those contaminated sites, including the firefighters themselves.
• Public Awareness & Education: Campaigns are actively being run to educate homeowners and renovators about the use of asbestos. Fire departments and health agencies collaborate to ensure its safe disposal.
• Medical Monitoring: Health organisations have provided medical monitoring and financial aid for the affected parties. There has also been huge investment in research into asbestos-related illnesses, their early detection and treatment options.
• Substitution with Safer Materials: Many industries have been encouraged to substitute asbestos with materials like mineral wool, fiberglass, Kevlar fabrics and ceramic fibers. These materials provide safe and effective fireproofing solutions while eliminating the health risks associated with asbestos.

The Ongoing Challenge.

Despite the efforts taken by the governments, health and fire departments in addressing the persistent challenge that is asbestos, the sheer volume of it in old buildings remains a major concern. Even as the cases of such illnesses continue going down due to these measures taken, people are still at risk of exposure during fires, renovations and even demolitions. It’s a reminder that the decisions of the past have long-lasting implications for the present.

Final Thoughts.

Though once celebrated as a “miracle mineral” for safeguarding lives against ferocious fires, asbestos paradoxically became a silent killer, claiming many through devastating illnesses. Governments must double down on their efforts to phase it out, ensuring no one suffers agonising deaths. What do you think? Does asbestos still protect, or does it pose a grave risk? Share your views below!

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