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Among the more common asbestos exposures are those that happen on jobsites. Many occupations fall into the at-risk category, but some are more at risk than others. Among the at-risk professions are heating, ventilation, and air conditioning contractors, including those who repair these fixtures. Many older ventilation units used asbestos to increase durability and promote insulation. Furnaces and their piping were lined with asbestos to prevent heat transfer and move hot air into ventilation shafts.
The lining of cooling units, such as those in air conditioners, was often made of asbestos containing materials. Much like a refrigerator, the quality of function in these mechanisms relied on staying cold, a function at which asbestos was particularly adept. Almost any insulation material could potentially contain asbestos, and probably did.
However, furnaces and air conditioning units are not the extent of asbestos use in HVAC systems. Indeed, asbestos could be found nearly anywhere in a given ventilation system. Entire pieces of piping or ventilation shaft were often coated in asbestos for insulation.
Asbestos was used until the late 1970’s in nearly 80% of structures built prior to 1978. HVAC contractors will often encounter asbestos fixtures. When intact and stable, it is unlikely they pose a great danger, though they should be phased out. However, when these materials are damaged or disturbed, it is possible that the asbestos fibers could be released into the air supply, endangering those in the vicinity. Repairs and modifications to older fixtures will often require the disturbance or damage of these materials, leaving contractors at risk of a harmful exposure.
Asbestos, when inhaled, can cause a number of respiratory complications, including the deadly cancer mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers will lodge themselves in the pleural lining of the lungs causing a sustained inflammation over time, eventually leading to harmful scar tissue growth. Because these fibers are so durable, the body is unable to expel them.
HVAC contractors should be aware of the danger these materials pose and use proper protective equipment when dealing with known asbestos-containing materials. Home and building owners should never touch these materials and should leave all modifications and repairs to those with experience in HVAC repair. Please reference our directory below for a certified HVAC contractor in your area.
Last modified: December 09, 2009.
