What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of flexible fibers that are resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion. These properties once made it a sought-after building material – but the health risks are severe.

In construction, asbestos was often used as an insulator or processed into materials such as paper, cement, plastic, or coatings. If asbestos fibers are released and inhaled, they can become lodged in the body and cause severe long-term illnesses.

Possible consequences include lung cancer, aggressive mesothelioma, and the chronic lung disease asbestosis. Worldwide, over 50 countries, including Switzerland, have now banned asbestos.

Where Does Asbestos Occur?

Asbestos was used in numerous products: for example, in pipe insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, facades, or water pipes. Individuals who came into professional contact with asbestos-containing materials were and still are particularly at risk:

• Mining, transportation, port work
• Manufacturing and processing of asbestos-containing products
• Renovation and demolition work in civil engineering and construction
• Renovation or disposal of crumbling asbestos building materials

Indirectly affected groups – such as family members of asbestos workers – can also be contaminated through clothing.

Where Does Asbestos Come From?

Between the 1930s and 1980s, asbestos was intensively used as a building material. In Switzerland, its use has been completely banned since 1989. Today, the world's largest exporting countries of asbestos are Russia, Kazakhstan, and China.

Asbestos in the Home

Even today, asbestos can still be found in older buildings – for example, in floor coverings, lightweight panels, or roof insulation. During renovation work or age-related material decomposition, there is a risk that fibers may be released.

In rental agreements, the landlord is obliged to keep living spaces free from health risks. Therefore, if asbestos is suspected, a professional inspection should be carried out. This is the only way to identify and remediate a potential risk in good time.

If you want to be on the safe side, an asbestos analysis by a certified laboratory is recommended.