How Long Does Asbestos Stay in the Air?

Asbestos-related diseases kill thousands of Americans every single year. These inconspicuous fibers wreck untold havoc on your respiratory system, and as such you may be wondering: “How do I know if asbestos is in my building?” and “How long does asbestos stay in the air?”

Answering these questions can be complicated, and requires the presence of asbestos removal professionals to answer. That’s because how long asbestos stays in the air doesn’t have a specific answer. It depends entirely on the location of the asbestos, and how often it is disturbed. 

Certified asbestos contractors will be able to tell you if asbestos is present or not in your building, and if it is safe to breathe the air. We will do our best, however, to answer the question “How long does asbestos stay in the air?” as thoroughly as we can.

How much exposure to asbestos is dangerous?

No amount of exposure to asbestos is considered safe. That being said, very short-term exposure to asbestos rarely causes disease. Most people who contract lung disease or mesothelioma cancer do so after repeated exposure to asbestos over time. 

Asbestos exposure is cumulative, so short-term exposures can add up. Once the fibers are in your respiratory system, they are there for good. Asbestos is resistant to your body’s natural defence mechanisms, and the build up of fibers over time can cause significant health issues. 

If you don’t know how long (or how many times) you have been exposed to asbestos, it’s crucial to contact an asbestos removal company as soon as possible to ensure your residence or work place is safe.