What type of asbestos accounts for 80-95% of all asbestos found in buildings?

Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, is the type of asbestos that accounts for 80-95% of all asbestos found in buildings. It is the most common form of asbestos used in construction materials due to its favorable properties such as flexibility, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation. Chrysotile is often found in a variety of products, including insulation, roofing tiles, and floor materials.

The prevalence of chrysotile in buildings is significant because understanding its common usage helps building inspectors and safety professionals identify potential asbestos contamination in structures. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring proper handling and remediation of asbestos-containing materials, protecting the health of occupants and workers.

Additionally, while amosite and crocidolite are other types of asbestos, they are found in far smaller quantities in building materials. Asbestiform refers to the fibrous, mineral form that includes all types of asbestos but does not specifically identify any one type as the most common. Therefore, chrysotile is the key focus when discussing asbestos exposure risks in buildings.