Asbestos is well known as a substance that is dangerous for humans. When the fibres are released into the atmosphere they can be breathed into the lungs. Exposure to asbestos is directly linked to a number of very serious chronic conditions and can decrease quality of life as well as eventually being fatal.
However, some people do not realise that their pets are also at risk from asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibres affect the lungs of animals in the same way they do with humans, so it is important to take steps to protect them.
Check your property for asbestos
The best way to protect your pets from asbestos exposure is to be aware of where any asbestos can be found in your home. To do so you should have an asbestos survey carried out in your property. Asbestos specialists will carry out a thorough inspection of your home to establish if any asbestos is present.
Be careful with DIY
Any kind of invasive DIY can be a dangerous time if you have asbestos in your home. DIY can potentially expose asbestos fibres – this is a common time for pets to breathe in asbestos. It is advisable, then, to take extra care before carrying out any work around your property and ensuring that no asbestos is present in the building materials.
Restrict access to areas with asbestos
If you know that asbestos is present in a certain part of your house then it is essential that you restrict access to that part of your home to your pets. If animals are allowed to roam they can disturb asbestos which is when fibres can become airborne, this is dangerous for you and your pet.