Asbestos fibers can be seen under a microscope. There are ways to test for them, which is why those who suspect they have encountered asbestos particles will often send them to a lab. The samples can be examined in a controlled environment, and a report can be made to tell the individual if it is asbestos or not.
But to the naked eye, these fibers are often invisible. Someone may believe that they can just be on the lookout for asbestos in an older building, for example, but this is a mistaken belief. They are not actually going to be able to see these microscopic fibers. Often, they just float in the air, where they are at risk of being inhaled. This can lead to a type of cancer known as mesothelioma.
Looking for common materials
Instead of looking for asbestos fibers themselves, people will often look for materials where these are used. They were often used in insulation in the past, for example, such as around old pipes or duct systems.
Asbestos was also commonly used in flooring tiles. It may be present in the tiles themselves, in some types of rolled flooring, in the glue attaching the tile to the floor or even in the layer of tarpaper below the tile.
The danger with interacting with these materials, especially when removing them from an older property, is that it disturbs the asbestos fibers and releases them into the air as the materials are broken up. This can create extreme hazards for anyone who is exposed and may breathe in those particles.
What are your legal options?
Issues involving asbestos and mesothelioma can be very complicated, both from a medical and a legal standpoint. It can help to work with an experienced law firm to explore all of your options.