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You are here: DOH Home » EH » EHST » IAQ Program » Asbestos in Vermiculite Insulation |
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Indoor Air Quality • Office of Environmental Health, Safety, and Toxicology • Other Environmental Health Programs and Services
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Asbestos in Vermiculite Insulation From 1963 to 1984, vermiculite ore containing asbestos was mined in Libby, Montana by W.R. Grace and Company and sold to consumers under the name, "Zonolite Attic Insulation." This insulation was reportedly used in millions of homes and businesses nationwide, and in over 50,000 homes in Washington State.Asbestos in vermiculite insulation has been recognized as a human health hazard. Disturbing and inhaling the asbestos fibers should be avoided. If you suspect that your attic is insulated with vermiculite, the following resources will help you find answers to your questions regarding asbestos in vermiculite insulation. What does vermiculite insulation look like? Vermiculite insulation has a layered structure and glittery, granular appearance. The granules are small, about the size of a pencil eraser, and may have a silvery, gold, translucent, or brownish cast. After years in the attic, however, the granules may darken to black or gray. Other insulation materials like fiberglass, cellulose, and rock wool don't contain asbestos. Fiberglass insulation is pink, yellow, or white and has a texture like cotton candy. Cellulose has the texture of finely shredded newspaper and is gray in color. Rock wool is also gray and feels like dense wool. Does my insulation contain asbestos? To determine whether your insulation contains asbestos, contact an asbestos consultant or laboratory listed in your Yellow Pages under "Asbestos Consulting and Testing." Ask for specific instructions on safely collecting insulation samples for testing and for interpretation of test results. Another alternative for finding a lab to test for asbestos is the National Institute for Standards and Technology's list of accredited laboratories: What must I do to have my insulation removed? If your insulation does contain asbestos, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. Have a state-certified asbestos abatement contractor who is trained in removing asbestos safely do the job. The state Department of Labor and Industries maintains a list of certified asbestos abatement contractors (PDF). Is my health at risk? If you are concerned about possible exposure to asbestos, consult with your health care provider. Health information about asbestos is available from the EPA. Who do I contact for more information? Local Clean Air Agencies listed on the state Department of Ecology's Web site are your primary contact regarding asbestos in vermiculite and vermiculite products. More Resources
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