What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fibrous mineral used in construction in many structures built in Quebec between 1930 and 1990, according to the Government of Quebec.
What is the risk of health problems associated with asbestos?
“Materials that contain asbestos and are in good condition do not release fibres into the air and are generally safe,” according to the Government’s information. Dust that tests positive for asbestos is a concern because it means that asbestos may have been airborne at some point in time.
The Government of Quebec notes that “The risk of someone having health problems associated with exposure to asbestos increases with the amount of asbestos fibres to which the person is exposed [and] the duration and frequency of the person’s exposure to asbestos fibres.”
It also mentions that “Health problems associated with asbestos are rare in the general population”; they are more common in people who work in “asbestos mines,” “factories that manufacture parts containing asbestos” and the “construction and demolition industries.” This is because people in those jobs have a significantly higher chance of being exposed over a longer period of time and to higher concentrations.