Asbestos Residue Found In University -- MesoLink.org -- 07-28-04

Two of the buildings at Oklahoma University have been found to contain asbestos residue, it was recently discovered.

Signs of the asbestos residue were found in Kaufman and Gittinger Halls at the university.

The asbestos residue was found on the ceilings of the two halls, contained in tiles that were used in the buildings. Asbestos exposure is known to cause a deadly, incurable cancer known as malignant mesothelioma.

This cancer results from breathing in asbestos fibers, and can take several decades from exposure to actually manifest. However, the university Administration have stressed that the residue that has been discovered is not harmful.

To adhere to health and safety regulations, the asbestos residue is being removed from the university halls, and specialist removal firms have been employed to undertake the task of eliminating all residue.

Asbestos was used for many years in homes, offices, schools and colleges all over the world, and was used in tiles, ceilings, walls and insulation products amongst other things. Asbestos should always be removed by a specialist firm and never by an untrained and unqualified person.

Over recent years many regulations have been put in to place regarding the use and removal of asbestos to ensure the safety of those that risk being exposed to this hazardous material.