The North Dakota Department of Health warns homeowners cleaning out flood-damaged homes that some insulation may contain asbestos.
Vermiculite or “Zonolite” attic insulation was sold to millions of homeowners across the nation and often contains asbestos. Vermiculite is a naturally-occurring mineral and the insulation is easy to identify. It’s pebbly and loose, resembling very lightweight gravel or small packing peanuts. It looks like shiny, small pieces of popcorn and is usually light-brown or gold in color. Most other types of insulation are fibrous or woolly. Vermiculite insulation may be poured inside framed walls or cinder (concrete) block walls, as well as spread out between attic rafters or under floors.
Long-term or repeated inhalation of asbestos can result in lung diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer. Having asbestos-containing material in a house is not a health concern unless the tiny fibers become airborne and are inhaled.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that asbestos clean-up be performed by state-accredited asbestos contractors. For a list of accredited asbestos inspectors and abatement contractors, visit the North Dakota Department of Health’s website at http://www.ndhealth.gov/AQ/IAQ/ASB/Asbestos%20Contractor%20List.pdf.
If a homeowner needs to handle the vermiculite insulation during clean-up, the following guidance should be used to help protect workers and others in the house.
- When handling materials that may be contaminated with asbestos, at a minimum wear gloves, goggles and most importantly a HEPA respirator (not just a dust mask).
- The asbestos-containing material that needs to be removed should be handled while wet or damp, double bagged and properly labeled as “asbestos containing.” The bags can be placed at the curb with the household hazardous waste debris.
- Tape off rooms with plastic sheeting to prevent contaminating other areas of the home. Keep the insulation damp to prevent spreading dust.
- Keep windows open for good ventilation and wipe up all dust and debris using wet cleaning methods (wet-wiping and wet-mopping).
- A HEPA vacuum can be used for clean-up of minor dust or debris. Do not use a home/shop vacuum.
- While still wearing a respirator/mask, wash hands and clothing after handling such materials.
- If at all possible, avoid activities that will generate dust, such as dry sweeping or vacuuming debris that may contain asbestos.
- Temporarily move your family (especially children and pregnant women) out of the house until the work is done and the area is properly cleaned. If you can’t move your family, completely seal off the work area where the asbestos work is occurring.
- If renovations involve more extensive removal or exposure to asbestos containing insulation, hire a state-licensed asbestos removal contractor.
For more information, call Sandi Washek or Jane Kangas at the North Dakota Department of Health, 701.328.5188 or 701.476.4122.
