The fibers are most commonly found in the insulation, but they can be found in other places in the home. It is used in fire-resistant and insulating materials and often found in homes that were built before the 1980s. Asbestos is a heat-resistant, fibrous silicate mineral that can be woven into fabrics. What Is Asbestosis?Īsbestosis is long-term inflammation and scarring of the lungs due to asbestos fibers. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause major illnesses, so let’s discuss how to avoid filters made with them. Do not use these filters or wear the masks that accompanied the filters.
Gas mask filters manufactured during WWII and prior do contain asbestos and may be found in military surplus stores. Gas masks manufactured post-WWII do not contain asbestos in filters and are safe to wear. Gas masks, as we know them today, have been used since 1915.