Serpentine Rock Asbestos
Tuesday, January 11th, 2011
Working with serpentine rock – is it dangerous?
I live in Potrero Hill in San Francisco. My house sits on a bedrock of serpentine rock. I would like to redo my backyard, till the soul and move a great deal of earth (not rock) around.
Is there any danger working with like this? I know when crushed it is dangerous, but does asbestos release from churning the soil?
From what I understand concerning asbestos. The surrounding soil will also contain asbestos fibers (chrysotile). The fibers are tiny and, once disturbed, may become airborne. Even natural erosion and routine activity can expose or release dust that contains asbestos fibers. For example:
• Disturbing dry soils can create dust containing asbestos fibers.
• Storm water runoff can concentrate fibers; which may become airborne when dried.
• Asbestos fibers are exposed to the surface of the soil by wind, rain, and natural land movement.
If you are certain that the serpentine rock contains asbestos (not all serpentine rock does) then you are best not to disturb the soil. It is recommended that the contaminated soils should be covered with new soil to avoid the chance of airborne fibers and dust.
To be absolutely sure and safe – maybe you could have the soil tested? then you will know what steps to take.
Hope this helps,
Kind regards,
Ann.
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