Asbestos contamination

I get this call today to service an old Wiel McClain Boiler circa 1971. The heat exchangers are in really bad shape and have so much soot between the sections that the flame is rolling out of the burn chamber and halfway up the side of the boiler. I condemn it and and call the shop. The boss tells me to tear it apart and clean it up so these people can get some heat this evening. After removing the access plate from the front of the boiler I notice that the front of the sections are covered in soot and a whitish substance. Asbestos or also known as chrysotile. My boss informs me that its not asbestos and I should just continue cleaning the system.

I spent hole day cleaning this boiler and now wonder if my actions were foolish. Reports say that long term exposure can lead to health issues. I wonder what long term means... A day? A week? More?.. I guess I'll find out soon enough.

I'm not going back to that hole tomorrow, they can find some other idiot.