Understanding Asbestosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres. When these fibres are inhaled, they can cause scarring of the lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties, reduced lung function, and other severe respiratory problems. While asbestosis is not cancerous, it is a serious illness that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and, in severe cases, may lead to life-threatening complications such as respiratory failure.

At Identifibre, we offer comprehensive asbestos testing, air monitoring and visual inspection services to help prevent exposure to asbestos in your home or workplace, thereby reducing the risk of developing asbestosis.

Causes of Asbestosis

Asbestosis is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, which are commonly found in building materials used before the 1990s. Over time, these fibres accumulate in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring (fibrosis). The condition typically develops after long-term exposure to high levels of asbestos, but even moderate exposure over extended periods can lead to asbestosis.

Occupational exposure is the most common cause of asbestosis, particularly among individuals who have worked in industries such as:

Construction
Shipbuilding
Manufacturing (especially those involved in asbestos-containing products)
Mining

Even though asbestos use has been banned or restricted in many countries, including Australia, older buildings and infrastructure may still contain asbestos. Renovation or demolition of these buildings can release asbestos fibres into the air, putting workers and nearby residents at risk.

Secondary exposure, or para-occupational exposure, occurs when asbestos fibres are brought home on clothing, skin, or hair. Family members of workers who deal with asbestos are also at risk of developing asbestosis if these fibres are inhaled over time.

Learn more about asbestos in the home

Amphibole fibres

Serpentine fibres

Symptoms of Asbestosis

Symptoms of asbestosis often take years or even decades to appear after initial asbestos exposure. The latency period can range from 10 to 40 years, meaning that individuals exposed to asbestos many years ago may only start experiencing symptoms later in life.

Some common symptoms of asbestosis include:

Shortness of breath: One of the earliest and most prominent symptoms. This typically worsens over time, especially during physical activity.
Persistent dry cough: Often non-productive, meaning it doesn’t produce phlegm.
Chest pain or tightness: Some individuals may experience discomfort or pain in the chest.
Finger clubbing: Enlargement of the fingertips, which can be a sign of a serious lung condition.
Fatigue: Reduced lung function often leads to feelings of extreme tiredness.

These symptoms may progressively worsen as the scarring in the lungs becomes more severe. In the advanced stages of asbestosis, individuals may experience significant respiratory distress, and some may develop complications such as pulmonary hypertension or heart failure.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Asbestosis

If asbestosis is suspected, a thorough medical examination is required. A doctor may use several methods to diagnose the condition, including:

Chest X-rays: To detect lung scarring or other abnormalities.
CT scans: These can provide more detailed images of the lungs and help identify early-stage asbestosis.
Lung function tests: These tests assess how well your lungs are functioning, including your ability to breathe and exchange gases.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for asbestosis. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. Common treatments include:

Oxygen therapy: Helps individuals with advanced asbestosis breathe more easily.
Pulmonary rehabilitation: Exercises and education to improve lung function and manage symptoms.
Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation or manage associated conditions, such as respiratory infections.

Because there is no cure, prevention of exposure is the most effective way to avoid developing asbestosis.

Complications of Asbestosis

Asbestosis can lead to serious complications, including:

Respiratory failure: In severe cases, lung scarring can become so extensive that it prevents the lungs from supplying enough oxygen to the body.
Lung cancer: Long-term asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly among smokers.
Mesothelioma: While asbestosis itself is not cancer, individuals with asbestosis are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive cancer of the lung lining.
Cor pulmonale: A condition where the right side of the heart becomes enlarged and fails due to increased pressure in the lungs from pulmonary hypertension.

Given the serious nature of these complications, it’s vital to prevent asbestos exposure in the first place. This is where Identifibre’s services can make a significant difference.

Preventing Asbestosis: The Role of Asbestos Testing and Removal

The best way to prevent asbestosis is by limiting exposure to asbestos. Since asbestos is still found in many older buildings, ensuring that your home or workplace is free from asbestos-containing materials is crucial.

Asbestos Testing and Inspection At Identifibre

We provide professional asbestos testing services that allow you to identify whether asbestos is present in your home, workplace, or renovation project. Our NATA accredited laboratory ensures accurate results, giving you peace of mind that your environment is safe.

Protect Yourself from Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a preventable disease that results from exposure to asbestos fibres. While the condition is irreversible, taking proactive steps to reduce asbestos exposure can protect you and your family. Whether you’re concerned about asbestos in your home, workplace, or during a renovation, Identifibre offers the expertise and services you need to minimise your risk.

Asbestos Removal: Why You Need a Professional

If asbestos is found in your home, removal is sometimes necessary, particularly if the material is friable (easily crumbled). A licensed asbestos removalist can ensure the safe handling and disposal of asbestos to avoid contamination. Fines and legal penalties may apply if asbestos waste is not disposed of correctly.

Prevention and Awareness

Asbestos is a hidden danger that requires serious attention. With proper awareness, testing and professional help, you can minimise the risks it poses to your health. Always prioritise safety and seek professionals to remove or disturb asbestos-containing materials.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Identifibre today to schedule an asbestos inspection and ensure your home or workplace is asbestos-free. For more detailed information on air monitoring and related services contact Identifibre on (03)9563 2957 or via email at contact@identifibre.com.au

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SERVICES

Asbestos Testing

Identifibre is a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) endorsed laboratory for analysis of bulk samples of building materials and soil samples for the presence of asbestos. With an experienced team of analysts, we offer a variety of turnaround times to suit budget and time restraints.

Air Monitoring & Clearance Certificates

Identifibre provides all hygiene services required for asbestos removal works including air monitoring, visual inspections, clearance certificates and other services to ensure adequate control measures are in place before, during and after removal works.

Asbestos & Hazardous Materials Management Plans

Identifibre can provide a complete asbestos management solution, incorporating the asbestos assessment and management plan framework adapted to your particular organisation structure.

Asbestos Sample Testing

Air Monitoring & Clearance Certificates

Asbestos & Hazardous Materials Management Plans

Asbestos & Hazardous Materials Surveys & Risk Assessments

Identifibre’s Asbestos and Hazardous Materials Surveys and Risk Assessments (Division 6) detail the location and condition of asbestos and other hazardous materials that may be disturbed during demolition or refurbishment works on a building, structure, ship or plant where asbestos is fixed or installed.

Asbestos in the Workplace Surveys & Risk Assessments

Identifibre can assist your workplace to comply with the Victorian Occupational Health and Safety Regulations and the Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations by carrying out a Division 5 Asbestos in the Workplace Survey and Risk Assessment in a timely, accurate and cost effective manner.

Asbestos Awareness Training

Identifibre’s asbestos awareness training course provides guidance on identifying asbestos containing materials and how to work safely where asbestos may be suspected or confirmed.

Asbestos & Hazardous Materials Surveys & Risk Assessments

Asbestos in the Workplace Surveys & Risk Assessments

Asbestos Awareness Training

Project Management & Supervision

Identifibre can provide management assistance in all phases of asbestos abatement activities, from preparation of specifications through to project completion, including supervision and final clearance certification.

Asbestos Contaminated Land Assessments

Asbestos is commonly found within soil and fill material associated with commercial or residential construction. Contact Identifibre for expert advice to investigate and assess the site, including soil, and develop appropriate risk management strategies.

Respiratory Protection Fit Testing

All personnel who are required to remove or disturb asbestos-containing materials must use adequate respiratory protection for the task. Identifibre offer respiratory mask fit tests with all Identifibre fit testers RESP-Fit accredited.