Salamander Wool
Our previous topic included a bit about the history of asbestos and the legal status of the mineral. The main topic on everyone’s mind is generally the detriment that asbestos poses to your health and with that, it is easy to overlook the good that asbestos did for thousands of years. Asbestos was called salamander wool due to many beliefs that the salamander was resistant to fire. The ancient Greeks and Romans all used asbestos in some capacity, and even Marco Polo was introduced to the mineral on his travels. Needless to say, the dangers of asbestos were unknown in these early days and asbestos clothing, cleaning rags and even cooking pots were utilized. It would take until the early 20th century before the danger was fully realized. By that time, the production of asbestos containing products was in full swing and diseases attributed to exposure were finally being recognized.
Illnesses Come To Light
Asbestosis
Asbestos causes a few distinct illnesses, Asbestosis, Mesothelioma and cancer. All of these diseases center around the lungs and breathing in asbestos fibers are the smoking gun.Asbestosis is the direct cause of excessive asbestos exposure, although any exposure is less than ideal. Asbestosis occurs when the fibers have worked their way into the lungs and create a situation in which the lungs are scarred. This disease is responsible for the first documented case of a factory worker dying of inhalation of asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is caused strictly by asbestos and can lead to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma and Cancer
NOW Environmental Services is committed to asbestos education and training. If you work in or around areas that may be cause for alarm, we offer simple identification classes to keep you safe in your everyday work environment. With our training you will be able to identify potential sources of asbestos and avoid them if necessary. Check our course offerings for more information or give us a call today!