After a series of asbestos-related debacles in the state of Iowa, officials want to spread the word about the dangers of asbestos, and how it should be disposed of properly.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once commonly used in fireproofing and other building applications. It is now understood that asbestos causes a cancer known as mesothelioma, among other deadly diseases.

Asbestos can become airborne during renovations, demolitions, or sudden collapses, such as the building collapse in the town of Perry, just outside Des Moines, Iowa.

Thankfully, no one was hurt in that incident. However, there could still be health implications if asbestos in the building was inhaled by bystanders at the collapse.

Similarly, people who enjoy performing their own home renovations should be aware of the deadly substance that could be lurking in their walls in the form of insulation. Older homes may also have been built with asbestos-laden floor or ceiling tiles, roofing tiles, stucco, drywall, or acoustical plaster.

DIY renovators are typically exposed when attempting to remove asbestos-containing products from their home. Often, homeowners do not take the necessary safety steps to avoid asbestos exposure.

Since the integration of asbestos usage laws in the early eighties, asbestos is most commonly found in older buildings. “It can be anything from the tiles and shingles to the adhesives to pipe wrap to insulation,” says Becky Wehrman, the Iowa Metro Waste Authority’s Environmental Compliance Consultant.

Ms. Wehrman instructs Iowa resident on how to best dispose of asbestos. Before Metro Waste accepts asbestos-tainted material, it has to be moistened and double wrapped in plastic.

Once materials reach the landfill, they are buried in a clearly marked area, then immediately covered with at least six inches of dirt.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says any business that specializes in removing asbestos containing materials is required to get a permit. However, homeowners are not required to do so.

Each state may have different regulations when it comes to asbestos disposal, so always contact your local authorities to make sure you are acting in accordance with state and federal regulations.

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