What can I do to reduce my exposure and that of my family to NOA fibers?

Because there is no level of asbestos exposure established that is deemed to be without risk, and because of a latency period of 10 to 20 years or more for any signs or symptoms of asbestos-related disease to appear, precautions should be taken to minimize exposure to dust that potentially contains asbestos fibers. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) recommends these steps to reduce or prevent asbestos exposure in areas of naturally-occurring asbestos.

Outdoors

  • Walk, run, hike, and bike only on paved trails.
  • Play only in outdoor areas with a ground covering such as wood chips, mulch, sand, pea gravel, grass, asphalt, shredded rubber, or rubber mats.
  • Pave over unpaved walkways, driveways, or roadways that may have asbestos-containing rock or soil.
  • Cover asbestos-containing rock or soil in gardens and yards with asbestos-free soil or landscape covering.
  • Pre-wet garden areas before digging or shoveling soil.
  • Drive slowly over unpaved roads.


Indoors

  • Keep pets from carrying dust or dirt on their fur or feet into the home.
  • Remove shoes before entering your home to prevent tracking in dirt.
  • Use doormats to lower the amount of soil that is tracked into your home.
  • Keep windows and doors closed on windy days and during nearby construction.
  • Use a wet rag instead of a dry rag or duster to dust.
  • Use a wet mop on non-carpeted floors.
  • Use washable area rugs on your floors and wash rugs regularly.
  • Vacuum your carpet.

Show All Answers

1. Where are NOA deposits, or rock formations that may contain NOA, located in Placer County?
2. Considering the findings of the EPA and the ATSDR activity-based air monitoring in El Dorado Hills in El Dorado County, will similar monitoring be conducted by the District?
3. What is being done to minimize the disturbance of NOA deposits, or rock formations that may contain NOA, in Placer County?
4. What is asbestos exposure and why is asbestos exposure a concern?
5. What can I do to reduce my exposure and that of my family to NOA fibers?