Myrtle Beach is growing incredibly fast: according to US News, the city ranks 17th on a national scale. New hotels, condos, and shops are popping up everywhere to cater to the expanding population, which has increased by more than 52% in the last decade alone. However, as old makes way for new, and developments press ahead, local air quality is being affected by local construction. With hazardous substances lurking in many of the city’s aging buildings, should residents be worried?
What’s in the Air Around Building Sites?
Besides asbestos, other hazardous materials like lead, mold, and silica dust can also be released during construction activities. Each of these substances poses unique health risks, with lead exposure potentially resulting in neurological issues and silica exposure linked to respiratory diseases. Understanding these materials and their origins can help residents better assess the risks associated with nearby construction.
When old buildings are torn down, they release harmful materials into the air. The same goes for renovation or repairs, or any instance when the structure is disturbed. One of the biggest worries is asbestos. Before the 1980s, it was commonly used in things like insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring.
Local Cases Highlight the Risks
In 2019, asbestos was found in the rubble of The Breakers Resort on Ocean Boulevard. Mounds of contaminated debris sat uncovered for weeks, directly next to the sidewalk. Asbestos dust is incredibly light, so it’s easily picked up and blown in the air. Breathing in these toxic fibres causes irreparable, irreversible damage. Over time, exposure can cause chronic illness and life-threatening diseases like mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer. The average mesothelioma life span is just 12 to 21 months, so the seriousness of construction debris cannot be ignored.
Unfortunately, the Breakers incident wasn’t the only one. In 2014, debris piles near the Holiday South Motel were found to contain asbestos, too. Rubble came from nearby demolitions, but there were also reports of illegal dumping. Cases like these show just how easily hazardous materials from local construction can end up in public areas.
The risk extends beyond just immediate exposure; long-term health effects can develop from cumulative exposure to airborne toxins. Vulnerable populations, such as people with pre-existing health conditions or respiratory issues, may experience heightened sensitivity to even minimal exposure, exacerbating their health challenges.
Another effective precaution is to invest in high-quality air filtration systems that can capture fine particles and allergens. Regular maintenance and changing of filters can significantly improve indoor air quality, making it a worthwhile investment for those living near construction sites.
How It Could Affect You and Your Family
You don’t need to live next door to a local construction site to be affected by dust and debris in the air. Asbestos particles are tiny; they can remain airborne for days, and with the right wind conditions, can travel for miles. This makes asbestos a city-wide issue. The most vulnerable members of our community, like children, older adults, and people with existing health conditions, are likely to be most affected. Even pets are at risk if they spend time outdoors near contaminated areas.
Staying Safe Near Construction Sites
Here are some simple precautions to take to keep yourself safe.
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on local news and city announcements about upcoming demolitions or renovations.
- Limit exposure: If you live near a construction site, keep windows closed on windy days and use air purifiers indoors.
- Stay indoors if needed: Vulnerable residents should check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before going outside.
- Report concerns: If you see anything suspicious, contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
- Hire professionals: Before starting renovations on an older property, bring in experts to do an asbestos assessment.
Not Letting Local Construction Come at the Expense of Health
In addition to hiring professionals for asbestos assessments, it’s crucial to understand the regulations governing construction in your area. Familiarizing oneself with local laws can empower residents to advocate for safer practices and hold contractors accountable for any potential health risks associated with their work.
Engaging with community organizations or health advocacy groups can also provide support and resources for residents concerned about construction-related health risks. These organizations often have valuable information and can assist in efforts to promote safer construction practices in Myrtle Beach.
Local construction is a welcome sign of progress. However, it’s important to make sure that growth doesn’t come at the expense of our community’s health. To protect your well-being, stay informed of local developments, check air quality daily, and be vigilant about nearby sites.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
