Vermiculite Disturbance Activities

Home Mesothelioma Causes Asbestos Risk Products Vermiculite Zonolite Disturbance

Any activity that disturbs vermiculite attic insulation can result in asbestos fibers becoming airborne. The following are just some examples of ordinary activities that can disturb vermiculite attic insulation:

• Installing bath fan, bath light, etc. below vermiculite attic insulation
• Installing wiring (television, electrical, computer, telephone, etc.)
• Repairing or installing plumbing
• Installing skylight
• Installing drop-down attic stairs
• Improving attic ventilation
• Remodeling attic
• Rewiring ceilings and walls
• Demolition of ceilings or walls
• Demolition of homes

Direct handling of vermiculite insulation is one way a person could be exposed to airborne asbestos fibers. Cutting an opening into the ceiling immediately below the attic insulated with vermiculite can release asbestos fibers into the air. Homeowners are likely to cut into the ceiling when installing a bath fan, bath light, skylight, new wiring and rewiring; insulation in walls can be disturbed when installing wiring or plumbing, or repairing plumbing. Remodeling the attic, installing drop-down attic stairs, or the demolition of part or all of the structure can release hazardous fibers.

For more information about Zonolite Attic Insulation, see this document by Pinchin Environmental:

• Controlling the Hazard and Liability of Asbestos in Vermiculite Insulation (pdf 108.8 KB)
  Warnings for the Homeowner, Building Manager, Contractor and Real Estate Industry