Gerri writes from Freehold, New Jersey: "My husband took 2nd floor ceiling out 6 years ago, was planning to make a very tall second floor, we have a small thin hallway 6x 20 feet. with attic space on both sides on top and bedrooms on both sides 2nd flr level, my question is, 6 years ago he put up 2x4 wall to rafters on both sides of hallway. With insulation bought at home depot. It has torn and been exposed since then; it has shiny paper i think its fiberglass. My daughter's bedroom door opens up to this space she's 3 years old son is 18 is it dangerous for her to be breathing this in? Want hubby to complete this project."

Answer: I can't help with getting your husband to complete the project but I can tell you there is no long term health risk in the situation you describe. There is a possibility of irritation if the insulation is handled. That irritation is a mechanical abrasion caused by the ends of the fibers scratching the skin. This is not an allergic reaction and the itching generally subsides when the source of the irritation is removed by washing it off.

The few fibers that are small enough to become airborne and breathed into the lungs will be removed as fast as the ordinary dust we breathe every day. They simply don't stay in the body long enough to cause disease.

Based on more than 60 years of research, we believe our glass fibers are safe to manufacture and use. When working with the material we recommend following industry safe work practices to avoid irritation.