Understanding the Difference Between Asbestos and Radon | OCCU-TEC

What Are Radon and Asbestos? 

Radon and asbestos are two significant environmental hazards that pose serious health risks, but they differ in their nature, sources and impacts. Both are invisible dangers, often lurking in homes, schools and workplaces, yet their threats manifest in very different ways. Understanding what each substance is, how they affect health and the steps necessary for proper management and prevention is crucial for maintaining a safe environment. This blog post will explore the differences between radon and asbestos, how to test for them and the associated health risks, including their impact on lung health, detection challenges and exposure scenarios.

What is Asbestos? 

Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their durability, resistance to heat and chemical inertness. These characteristics made asbestos a popular material in construction, particularly in insulation, flooring, roofing and fireproofing materials. However, its widespread use has led to severe health consequences, as asbestos fibers, when disturbed, become airborne and can be easily inhaled. 

Is Asbestos Still in Materials Today?  

The short answer: Yes. However, on March 18, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that a ban has been implemented on the use of chrysotile asbestos, which is the most common form of asbestos used or imported into the U.S. This monumental step brings us closer to being able to say “no,” and finish the efforts to ban asbestos in the U.S., which started over 30 years ago.   

Asbestos, a known carcinogen with serious health implications, and specifically chrysotile asbestos, can be found in products including asbestos diaphragms, gaskets, brake blocks, aftermarket automotive brakes and linings, flooring materials, roofing materials, drywall and joint compounds, ceiling tiles, mastics and adhesive, and many more.   

Raw chrysotile asbestos was still being imported into the U.S. as recently as 2022, primarily used by the chlor-alkali industry. The EPA’s ban on the import of this asbestos for chlor-alkali use impacts eight facilities in the U.S., which produce chlorine and sodium hydroxide using asbestos diaphragms, that must over the next five years transition to new technology to produce their products.    

While the new ruling targets the chlor-alkali industry, the ruling also bans the use of sheet gaskets, oilfield brake blocks, aftermarket automotive brakes and linings, other vehicle friction products and gaskets. 

What Is Radon? 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the decay of uranium found in soil, rock and water. Unlike asbestos, which is a solid material, radon is a gas, making it particularly insidious because it is invisible, odorless and tasteless. Radon can seep into buildings through cracks and gaps in foundations, accumulating to dangerous levels, especially in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces such as basements. 

How Do You Test for Radon and Asbestos?

Radon Test 

Testing for radon is essential for identifying and mitigating potential health risks, as the gas is undetectable by human senses. There are several methods available to test for radon levels in homes and other buildings: 

Asbestos Test 

Testing for asbestos involves proactively identifying its presence in building materials before they become damaged and release asbestos fibers into the air, as asbestos fibers can remain hazardous even when not airborne: 

• Sampling: Professionals collect samples from suspected asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), such as insulation, floor tiles and roofing materials. It is crucial that sampling is performed by trained professionals to avoid disturbing the materials and releasing fibers into the air. 
• Laboratory Analysis: Collected samples are sent to specialized laboratories, where they are examined under a microscope to determine if asbestos fibers are present. Laboratory analysis can confirm the presence and type of asbestos, which is essential for determining the appropriate management or removal strategy.
• Asbestos Survey: Comprehensive surveys are often conducted in older buildings to identify and assess the condition of ACMs. These surveys help determine whether the materials pose an immediate risk and whether removal or containment is necessary. NESHAP regulations require all buildings undergoing renovation or demolition to be surveyed for asbestos regardless of the age of construction. 

Risks Associated with Radon and Asbestos

Both radon and asbestos pose serious health risks, particularly to lung health. Understanding these risks is essential for taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others from potential harm. 

Risks for Smokers 

• Smokers: Smokers exposed to both radon and asbestos face an exponentially increased risk of lung cancer. The combination of smoking and exposure creates a synergistic effect, drastically heightening the cancer risk. This risk is due to the combined damage from cigarette smoke and radon decay products or asbestos particles, which both contribute to lung tissue damage. 

Detection Difficulty 

• Radon Detection: Radon is difficult to detect without specialized equipment since it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Regular testing is essential to monitor and manage radon levels in buildings. Without regular testing, radon can accumulate unnoticed, leading to prolonged exposure. 
• Asbestos Detection: Identifying asbestos can be challenging without proper testing, as it is often hidden within materials. Professional sampling and analysis are necessary to confirm the presence of asbestos. Asbestos fibers are not visible to the naked eye, and their presence can only be confirmed through microscopic analysis, making professional testing indispensable. 

Environmental and Occupational Exposure 

• Radon Exposure: Radon levels vary based on geographic location, with higher concentrations found in areas with specific soil and rock types. It can accumulate in buildings, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces like basements. Geographic surveys and local radon maps can provide information on areas with elevated radon levels, but individual testing is always recommended. 
• Asbestos Exposure: Asbestos exposure is a significant concern in older buildings and industrial settings where asbestos was commonly used. Occupational exposure is particularly high for workers involved in automotive repair,  construction and demolition. Regulations now require strict controls and protective measures for workers in industries where asbestos exposure is a risk. 

Radon Exposure/Poisoning 

• Radon Exposure: Continuous exposure to high levels of radon can lead to radon poisoning, primarily manifesting as lung cancer. It is important to address radon issues in affected buildings to reduce health risks and improve indoor air quality. Radon mitigation systems can effectively reduce radon levels, protecting occupants from long-term exposure. 

While both radon and asbestos are environmental hazards with serious health implications, they differ in their properties, detection methods and health impacts. Understanding what asbestos and radon are, how to test for them and the associated risks is essential for effective management and prevention. Regular testing, professional evaluations and prompt action can help mitigate these risks and ensure a safer living environment. 

Trust OCCU-TEC as Your Environmental Health Experts 

For more information on radon testing and asbestos management, trust OCCU-TEC to provide expert guidance and services tailored to your needs. With years of experience in environmental health and safety, OCCU-TEC is equipped to help you identify, manage and mitigate the risks associated with radon and asbestos. Our team of professionals is committed to ensuring that your home, workplace or building is safe from these invisible dangers. 

By staying informed and proactive, and by partnering with OCCU-TEC, you can protect yourself, your family and your community from the serious health risks posed by radon and asbestos. Contact OCCU-TEC today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a safer environment.