Asbestos at the Regional Airport in Virginia - Case Study Example

Because of these properties, asbestos has been used in a wide range of manufactured products, mostly in building materials, friction products, and heat-resistant fabrics. Asbestos has been used in building-construction materials, cement, textiles, missile and jet parts, asphalt and caulking compounds and paints, and in friction products such as brake linings. These materials are needed for the construction of the new Virginia airport. According to (Timbrell, 2000) "Exposure to asbestos fibers and dust, however, can cause asbestosis, a disease of the lungs caused by the inhalation of asbestos particles, and, after a latent period of up to 30 years and more, various cancers, especially lung cancer and mesothelioma, which is an inoperable cancer of the chest and abdominal lining" II.

Alternative Control to dust and fiber ExposureSince asbestos fibers may cause harmful health effects in people who are exposed.Since some materials are not as hazardous as asbestos it's better to discontinue patronizing all the products that contain high in asbestos materials for constructing the airport. Based on an article (Gropal,2004) "Aside from using asbestos fiber to be added to cement to increase its elasticity try to use non-asbestos to do the same job. Alternatively, fibrous cement can be completely replaced by using metal or plastic to form the section".

It is suggested to use alternatives in constructing the New airport of Virginia.Also while at work the workers who will work in the airport construction should include wearing personal protective equipment, such as respirators, providing medical testing. Elimination of asbestos can be reduced in many ways. To control risks, the airport management should ensure that dust or fiber are not generated. There will be enough exhaust ventilation to all the workers in the construction, and proper disposal of bags used.

Like regular hand and washing to remove asbestos - dust, and soil. Also showering and changing clothes before leaving from work in the construction and separate the work clothes.References:Kaplan, J. Toxicological Profile for Asbestos. September 2001. <http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp61.pdf> Krishna, Gopal. " Alternatives to Asbestos." Toxics Alert.January 2004, Brookville, NY <http://www.toxiclink.org/art-view.phpid=12> Palomino, Arnold. Oxidative stress in Disease. New York, 2001.

Timbrell, John A. "Principles of Biochemical Toxicology: Increased Particulate Air Pollution. p. 68-70. New York: (2000)