Dangers of Asbestos in Water

Dangers of Asbestos in Water 
by Kaitlin Wilson

Asbestos, a dangerous mineral associated with cancerous diseases such as asbestos cancer and asbestosis, is typically known to cause cancer after prolonged exposure to its fibers while working at a jobsite that has asbestos-containing materials (ACM). However, asbestos also poses a danger in water. Although it’s not as well-known as the most common ways people are exposed, asbestos in water still remains a danger to the public.

How Asbestos Gets Into Water 
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cement water mains that have started to decay is one of the primary reasons asbestos gets into water. As water moves through cement pipes that contain asbestos, the corroded cement can release the harmful fibers which then enters into the water.

Asbestos fibers can also come from rainwater collected from roofing and pipes, and from erosion of fibers from the bedrock that contain asbestos mineral fibers. In addition, water sources may contain asbestos naturally and filtration may be unable to completely remove it.

Steps to Eliminate Asbestos in Water

The EPA is well-aware of the potential of asbestos getting into water systems. In fact, the EPA requires regular monitoring and testing for asbestos fibers in tap water. If the maximum contaminant level (MCL) is higher than it should be, the company or municipality responsible for supplying your water must immediately take steps to reduce the asbestos levels until they are lower than the MCL level, which according to the Agency for Toxic Substances & Diseases Registry is 7 million fibers per each liter of drinking water.

Keep in mind that asbestos cannot be detected by seeing, feeling, or smelling it in water. In order to get more information on asbestos levels in your water, you’ll need to contact your local water supplier. For well water, you’ll need to contact your local health department or ground water company and get the water tested and treated.

Getting Legal Help

Unfortunately, there are instances when people drank asbestos-filled water and in turn, developed an asbestos-related disease. Although the chances of this happening are rare, if you or a loved one have been victim to an asbestos related disease, there are federal and state laws in place to protect you. For more information, visit Mesothelioma Lawyer Center, a comprehensive resource on asbestos and asbestos-related diseases. State specific information, such as in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Washington is discussed in depth.


Blog Owner Addition.

Getting your Drinking Water Tested - we can help. This asbestos testing is conducted at a special request(put Asbestos in Subject). If you have a water treatment system, we typically recommend testing before and after the treatment system.  For a full list of water testing options and water treatment options.  Another issue may be radon.

Interesting Link - Where is Asbestos Found?