FIBERS RESPIRABLE IN THE AIR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2786-5681-2022-1.01Keywords:
fibers respirable, environmental pollution, asbestos, impact on human health.Abstract
Abstract. The paper presents the characteristics of respirable fibers. Respirable fibers are defined as fibers less than 3 μm in diameter, more than 5 μm in length, and a length to thickness ratio of the fiber greater than 3:1. Such dimensions of the fibers allow them to hang in the air and have the ability to travel long distances. Examples of respirable fibers are residues of asbestos products or artificial mineral fibers. The respirable size of the fibers is considered to be a physical carcinogen. The cause of diseases is long-term effects on the respiratory system. Asbestos is assigned a first hazard category. Its permissible concentration limit in the preparation is 0.1% by mass. Exceeding this value requires including this dangerous substance in the classification of any mixture. The need for research on the concentration of respirable asbestos fibers in the atmospheric air is emphasized.
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