Practical tips on how to reduce asbestos exposure

If you are living in an area where naturally occurring asbestos has been disturbed and the asbestos fibers are likely to become airborne, you should reduce your exposure to asbestos by taking the following steps:

-Walk, run, hike, and bike only on paved trails.

-Play only in outdoor areas with a ground covering such as wood chips, mulch, sand, pea gravel, grass, asphalt, shredded rubber, or rubber mats.

-Pave over unpaved walkways, driveways, or roadways that may have asbestos-containing rock or soil.

-Cover asbestos-containing rock or soil in gardens and yards with asbestos-free soil or landscape covering.

-Pre-wet garden areas before digging or shoveling soil.

-Keep pets from carrying dust or dirt on their fur or feet into the home.

-Remove shoes before entering your home to prevent tracking in dirt. -Use doormats to lower the amount of soil that is tracked into the home

-Keep windows and doors closed on windy days and during nearby construction.

-Drive slowly over unpaved roads.

-Use a wet rag instead of a dry rag or duster to dust.

-Use a wet mop on non-carpeted floors. -Use washable area rugs on your floors and wash them regularly.

-Vacuum carpet often using a vacuum with a high-efficiency HEPA filter.

-Inspect your home for deteriorating asbestos-containing insulation, ceiling or floor tiles.

-Do not disturb asbestos-containing insulation, ceiling or floor tiles; hire a trained and certified asbestos contractor to remove the materials.

-Ask your employer if you are working with materials or in an environment containing asbestos. If you are, make sure you are properly protected from asbestos exposure