Do You Have to Quarantine After Second-Hand Exposure to Asbestos?

What Is Second-Hand Asbestos Exposure and Is It Dangerous?

Second-hand asbestos exposure has the same effects as primary asbestos exposure — deadly effects. Thus, people who work directly with asbestos should protect their family and friends from the fibers as well by taking precautions to ensure fibers are not carried home.

Secondary, or second-hand, asbestos exposure happens when an individual working directly or near asbestos inadvertently carries the fibers with them on their clothes or tools, or in their vehicles, taking them home and exposing others. Children and other adults at home are at risk of breathing in these fibers as a result.

Once one is subjected to second-hand exposure, there is no need to quarantine. But understanding the scope of the danger is important.

The damage has already been done, and the fibers are inhaled into the respiratory system (where they become trapped and cannot be passed to others). However, anyone who suspects they’ve ingested asbestos fibers should undergo screening for confirmation. If contact is confirmed, following the advice of a licensed health professional can help with symptom management. 

Finally, they should look for asbestos abatement experts to help them safely dispose of all asbestos-infested clothes and items. This is the primary way to ensure others are not placed at risk of exposure.

Risk Factors Associated with Second-hand Exposure to Asbestos

Spouses and children of asbestos workers and those working in asbestos-laden environments are at risk of second-hand asbestos exposure. When these workers carry asbestos fibers home with them, they are likely to unknowingly place their families in harm’s way. 

Second-hand asbestos exposure is the leading cause of women’s mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancers. Children who get into contact with asbestos develop these diseases in their adulthood. Men, of course, are also vulnerable to second-hand exposure.

Why is Second-Hand Exposure to Asbestos an Issue?

Asbestos use has declined since the 1970s. However, asbestos-related conditions haven’t dropped. The phenomenon is due to the latency period of symptoms. Anyone exposed to asbestos in the 1970s or earlier may just now be starting to experience symptoms of disease. 

Asbestos is an Ongoing Problem

 Although asbestos use has been reduced, the few companies that produce asbestos products still expose their workers to some extent. Those working in asbestos abatement might also be exposed. There are protocols and procedures, including wearing safety equipment, designed to limit exposure. However, precautionary measures may not be enough to shield people from trace asbestos fibers.

Many houses built before 1990 may also still contain asbestos in elements such as floor tiles, insulation, door gaskets, roofing shingles, ceiling joints, and walls. If left undisturbed, the asbestos is not likely to be dangerous. However, renovating older homes could expose those inside to fibers, and it takes an asbestos expert to inspect and identify asbestos in a building safely. Moreover, it’s important for homeowners to be mindful of wear and tear and consult with an expert if they believe asbestos is present.

Sources of Second-Hand Asbestos Exposure

There are essentially two forms of asbestos – friable and non-friable. Non-friable asbestos is well-contained and doesn’t pose a health hazard. Friable asbestos, on the other hand, is loose fibers that can easily become airborne. This form can move through the air, soil or water undetected and get ingested, embedding into the lungs.

Because asbestos fibers are invisible to the naked eye and travel easily from one location to the next, second-hand exposure is more common than what people may think. In fact most people who have been exposed second-handedly don’t even know they’ve been exposed until it’s too late. They may have been exposed while washing their loved one’s work clothes or accessories or riding in a car with someone who has come into direct contact with asbestos.

How to Dispose of Asbestos-Contaminated Items

Only a certified asbestos abatement expert should attempt removing fibers from a location. These individuals have the proper safety gear and equipment for the job. 

The disposal process involves several steps. The professional, wearing protective clothing and respiratory gear, will usually start by installing plastic sheets to seal off the site. Then, they will reduce air pressure to ensure the fibers don’t get swept away, and a HEPA vacuum or wet wipes will be used to clear the area of asbestos. The waste is then placed in two airtight plastic bags, where it is stored until it can be dropped off at asbestos disposal landfills.

Conclusion

No one needs to quarantine after second-hand asbestos exposure. However, any contaminated items should be left alone until a professional can make an assessment and recommend next steps. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to asbestos second-hand should seek medical attention immediately.

Asbestos-related cancers: the ‘Hidden Killer’ remains a global threat, van Zandwijk, N., Reid, G. and Frank, A.L., 2020, Expert review of anticancer therapy, 20(4), pp.271-278.