Can water stored in cement tanks containing asbestos be harmful?

Question

Water is stored on the roof of our condo in asbestos-containing cement tanks for 4-5 days before being used. Most do not drink the water, but use it for bathing, cooking, cleaning, etc. Can this water be harmful?

Answer 1

It would depend on whether the tank is in good condition or not.
The previous answerers brings up good points about the potential of residual asbestos fibres on shower walls, etc. Drinking, however, should not be a problem. Breathing asbestos fibres is what causes problems.
This is a good site regarding asbestos and its use in water tanks.
The site indicates it is not a problem, but you should determine whether your tank is in good condition, have the water tested, and then make up your own mind on this.
http://www.eastherts.gov.uk/home%20maintenance/asbestos.htm
Hope this helps!

Answer 2

I agree with Graham. I definitely wouldn't use it for cooking or cleaning and it could be harmful to bath in such as a shower because you could be inhaling it. Take the water to a water treatment place (ie, Kinetico, Culligan, city water company, etc) and have them test the water. I'm not sure if there is a test for asbestos in water, but doesn't hurt to find out.

Answer 3

Of course it can. The danger from asbestos is from the fibres sticking in the lungs and causing cancer. If you shower and the water dries on your tiles then the fibres are released into the air you breathe when you use the bathroom for other purposes. If youi have an extractor fan that may even increase the amount of airborn fibres.

Answer 4

omg yes its so harmful it can give you cancer,,all you have to do is breath it in you dont even have to touch it..call the city and have them come out and check it..before every one in your building gets sick...this is urgent....