CMC Asbestos Surveys: Asbestos Glossary - B

HSL investigation refutes asbestos claims over safe cement

The Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL) have investigated claims that chrysotile in asbestos cement changes into a non-asbestos fibrous material called Casitile. The claims also suggested that this process is 100% efficient and no chrysotile asbestos remains in the matrix and no release of airborne chrysotile fibres can occur.

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Biopsy
A tissue sample removed and analyzed to determine the presence of cancer cells.

Blue Asbestos
A fibrous, lavender-blue mineral which, although used less in construction and industry than other forms of asbestos, is more commonly associated with mesothelioma.

Bridging Encapsulant
The application of a sealant over the surface of asbestos-containing material to prevent the release of asbestos fibres.

Bronchi
Primary branches of the trachea (windpipe).

Bulk Sample
A sample of material such as boarding, insulation or debris taken by an accredited surveyor to be tested for asbestos fibre content by an accredited laboratory.

Bronchogenic Cancer
An abnormal cell growth in the primary branches or the trachea (windpipe).

Bronchoscopy
A procedure during which an examiner uses a viewing tube to evaluate a patient's lung and airways