Asbestos

Naturally Occuriung Asbestos (NOA)

Asbestos is a term used for several types of naturally-occurring fibrous minerals found in many parts of California including Tuolumne County. When rock containing asbestos is broken or crushed, asbestos fibers may be released and become airborne. Exposure to asbestos fibers may result in health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the thin membranes lining the lungs, chest, and abdominal cavity), and asbestosis (a non-cancerous lung disease which causes scarring of the lungs). Sources of asbestos may include:

• Unpaved roads or driveways surfaced with asbestos-containing rock
• Construction activities in asbestos-containing rock formations
• Rock quarrying activities where asbestos-containing rock is present

Regulations pertaining to the use of asbestos can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.

Removal or Demolition of Buildings Containing Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been added to various types of building construction materials to increase fire resistance, strength, and durability. Exposure to asbestos during demolition can result in health ailments such as lung cancer, mesothelioma (cancer of the linings of the lungs and abdomen), and asbestosis (scarring of lung tissues that results in constricted breathing). Federal regulations have been adopted and are administered by the CA Air Resources Board to limit human exposure to this type of asbestos.