The use of asbestos in products
ended several decades ago, but it is still very possible that you may come
across it, particularly in older homes or buildings. It is very likely that any
house built before the 1980s still contains some products with asbestos in
them. Therefore, if you plan on completing work on your home, you should be
aware of what to do in the event you come across asbestos.
Some Background on Asbestos
Asbestos was widely used in a significant number
of products until the 1970s when it was publicly recognized that exposure to
asbestos fibers was dangerous. While most products manufactured today do not
contain asbestos, it still may be found in many places. Some of the products
that asbestos was used in include, but are not limited to:
1.
Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts;
2.
Soundproofing material that was sprayed
on walls and ceilings;
3.
Patching and joint compounds for walls
and ceilings;
4.
Resilient floor tiles, backing on vinyl
sheet flooring, and adhesives used for installing floor tile;
5.
Brake pads, clutches, mufflers and
gaskets in older vehicles; and
6.
Significant amounts of insulation
material.
Before the dangers of asbestos fibers were known,
asbestos was used frequently because it provided excellent strength and fire
resistance, among other versatile features. Unfortunately, the long-term risks
of exposure to asbestos far outweigh the potential beneficial uses of it.
The Danger of Asbestos
It is important to note that asbestos, itself, is
not dangerous. The danger comes from microscopic asbestos fibers that are
released into the air and breathed into the lungs. Breathing any level of
asbestos fibers for any period of time may lead to an increased risk of the
development of either lung cancer, mesothelioma or other type of cancer.
Asbestos that is damaged is more vulnerable to
releasing these fibers, especially if it is hit, rubbed, handled, or exposed to
vibration or air flow. Asbestos that is damaged may be repaired or removed
entirely, which should be done by a person specifically trained in the handling
of asbestos. Repairing asbestos involves sealing or covering it. If you come
across what you believe to possibly be asbestos, it is best to leave it alone
and have it inspected by a professional. Remember that you will not be able to
see if fibers have been released into the air because they are microscopic.
Mesothelioma Attorneys
Today, we know that exposure to asbestos fibers
can lead to significant health consequences. While the use of asbestos in new
products has almost ended, there are still many older products still in use
today that contain it. Limited exposure
may increase health risks, so it is still advisable to avoid handling asbestos
altogether.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and
believe it developed as the result of exposure to asbestos fibers, contact the experienced attorneys at the Throneberry Law Group.
