Chapter 3 - Environmental Issues

Question 1

Asbestos

Answer 1

A naturally occurring mineral fiber sometimes found in older homes. It is hazardous to health when a possibility exists of exposure to inhalable fibers. Homeowners should be alert for friable asbestos and always seek professional advice in dealing with it.

Question 2

Asbestosis

Answer 2

A chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.

Question 3

Friable

Answer 3

Easily crumbled or reduced to power. Asbestos is an example of a friable substance.

Question 4

Lead

Answer 4

A material used in pipes and paint of many older homes. We now know that lead is hazardous to health. The local environmental protection agency should be consulted for guidelines on handling, removal and applicable laws.

Question 5

Radon

Answer 5

A colorless, odorless gas that is emitted from soils, rocks and water as a result of radioactive decay in certain areas of the country.

Question 6

Underground Storage Tank

Answer 6

A tank and any underground piping connected to the tank that has at least 10 percent of its combined volume underground

Question 7

Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI)

Answer 7

A type of foamed in-place insulation that releases formaldehyde gas. It was banned by the Consumer Public Safety Commission in 1982 from use in residences and schools. Holding that the risks had not been proven, a Federal Court lifted the ban in 1983. The local consumer and/or environmental protection agency should be consulted for additional information on this type of insulation.

Question 8

Chloro-flouro Carbons (CFCs)

Answer 8

A fluid, containing hydrocarbons, that absorbs heat from a reservoir at low temperatures and rejects heat at higher temperatures. When emitted into the atmosphere, CFCs cause depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.

Question 9

Freon

Answer 9

Moderately toxic gases or liquids which have typically been used as refrigerants (in air conditioning units) and as aerosol propellants.