Health risks

What are the health hazards of asbestos?

All types of asbestos can break into tiny fibres so small they can only be identified using a microscope. They are often so small that once they get into the air, they can be inhaled deep into the lungs, making it difficult for the body to remove.

There are illnesses associated with asbestos exposure such as asbestosis and cancers. A number of factors can determine an individual's likelihood of developing one of them.

Asbestos does not pose a risk to health if asbestos-containing material is undisturbed and in a reasonable condition. Thousands of people live with asbestos every day without harm to their health.

Amount and duration of exposure

The more you are exposed, the more fibres may enter your body and the greater your chance of developing asbestos-related problems. People who have suffered health effects from exposure to asbestos have generally worked in the asbestos mining or milling industry, are often smokers, have been involved in making or installing asbestos products, or are from the immediate families of these people.

In all of these situations there was exposure to high levels of airborne dust, either from the processes involved or from the workers' clothes. These exposures occurred over extended periods of time and at levels many times higher than allowed by present day exposure standards.

Other general information

What is asbestos?
Your safety
Personal protective equipment
Legislation
Common locations