Health warning about asbestos in the debris

The president of the Chamber of Environmental Engineers, Ahmet Kahraman, speaking to Turkish media outlets has warned about the potentially hazardous chemicals that are lurking amidst the rubble in the earthquake-affected areas. 

"Asbestos from the demolished buildings poses a risk. Implementing the procedures at this stage, while thousands of our citizens are under the rubble, extends the time that measures should be taken,” said Kahraman speaking to local media. 

Many older buildings were built with material that includes asbestos and these make up the bulk of those that collapsed. With thousands of workers, volunteers, and citizens still in the vicinity of the rubble, prolonged exposure may result in health complications. 

Asbestos was used extensively in home construction up until the 1970s as a highly effective and inexpensive fire-retardant material and thermal and acoustic insulator.

Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to lung disease and even cancer.