Understanding Asbestos Exposure
365
Days of the Year We're Available
20,000+
Cases Handled
100+
Combined Years of Experience
Asbestos Exposure: What You Need to Know
Invisible and deadly, asbestos has killed thousands due to its link to diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. While asbestos was widely a widely used industrial material for decades because of its heat resistance and durability, the fibers and dust from these materials are easily disturbed and ingested once it becomes airborne. If you work in high risk industries, are renovating an older home or live near contaminated areas you need to protect yourself. Knowing the dangers and your rights is the first step to protecting your health and seeking justice when needed.
Commonly Used and Extremely Deadly
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to six naturally occurring mineral fibers that are strong, heat resistant and insulating. Because of these qualities it was used in many industries such as construction, manufacturing and automotive until its health risks were discovered.
When asbestos fibers are disturbed they become airborne and can be inhaled or ingested. These microscopic fibers are invisible but carry life changing health risks. All forms of asbestos – chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite and tremolite – are now known to increase the risk of cancers and other deadly diseases.
Common products that contain asbestos:
- Construction Materials: Roofing, insulation, asbestos insulation and cement.
- Automotive Parts: Brake pads and clutches.
- Household Products: Ceiling tiles and floor coverings.
- Industrial Products: Fireproofing materials and heat insulation.
How Are People Exposed to Asbestos
Asbestos exposure occurs when asbestos fibers are disturbed and become airborne and can easily be inhaled or ingested. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and cannot be seen by the naked eye. As such, many people have unknowingly ingested this deadly fiber. Some common sources of exposure includes:
Occupational Asbestos Fiber Exposure
Workers in industries such as construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing are at highest risk, that’s why occupational safety is key to preventing asbestos exposure. Activities such as renovation, demolition or handling asbestos containing materials release fibers into the air. Fibers can also cling to workers' clothing or tools and bring them home to their families and put them at risk of secondary exposure.
Non-Occupational Asbestos Fiber Exposure
- Homes: Asbestos containing materials in older homes degrading can release harmful fibers.
- Products: Using consumer products made with asbestos can bring you in direct contact with harmful particles.
- Environment: Communities near asbestos mines, industrial sites or areas with natural asbestos deposits are at risk due to soil or water contamination.
Environmental and Secondary Exposure
Naturally occurring asbestos can get into water supplies especially through erosion or runoff. Secondary exposure occurs when family members come into contact with particles brought home on workers clothing or belongings.
There is no safe level of asbestos exposure
Asbestos Exposure Risks
Put simply, there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Short periods of exposure, repeated over time, increases the risk of serious health problems. Long term or occupational exposure increases these risks even more and can have devastating effects decades later.
If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related condition such as mesothelioma or lung cancer you need to explore your legal options. An experienced lawyer can help you get compensation and protect your rights.
- Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition with scarring and breathing difficulties.
- Lung Cancer: Higher risk for smokers exposed to asbestos fibers.
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer of the lungs, abdomen or heart that can appear decades after initial exposure. Occupational exposure increases the risk of mesothelioma.
- Other Cancers: Ovarian and laryngeal cancers have also been linked to asbestos. Women who used feminine hygiene products with asbestos are now suing that use of these products caused them to develop ovarian cancer.
Asbestos Related Diseases
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers are inhaled they can get trapped in the lung tissue and cause scarring and inflammation.
Over time this scarring can cause significant damage to the lungs and result in symptoms such as shortness of breath, persistent cough and chest pain.
The severity of asbestosis can vary, some people may experience mild symptoms while others may have severe respiratory problems. Asbestosis symptoms often don’t appear until many years after initial asbestos exposure.
There is no cure for asbestosis but treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Preventing exposure to asbestos fibers is key to avoiding this debilitating lung disease.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) but can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or heart (pericardium).
This deadly cancer is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers which can get lodged in the lining of these organs causing chronic inflammation and cellular damage.
Mesothelioma has a long latency period with symptoms appearing 20-60 years after initial exposure. Common symptoms are shortness of breath, chest pain and fatigue.
Due to its aggressive nature mesothelioma is difficult to treat and there is no cure. However surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early detection and intervention is key to extending survival and improving quality of life for those affected by this disease.
Empower Yourself
Asbestos Exposure Protection
It is important to understand that there are no safe levels of asbestos exposure and you should avoid coming into contact with it by any means possible. Protecting yourself from asbestos exposure is key to avoiding asbestos related diseases. The following examples illustrate some proactive steps you can take to protect yourself from exposure to the deadly substance and reduce your risk of asbestos related diseases. Remember preventing exposure to asbestos fibers is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the harm of this toxic substance.
Follow Health and Safety Regulations:
If you work with asbestos containing materials follow all safety protocols and regulations to minimize exposure. These regulations exist to protect workers from contact with asbestos fibers.
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Use PPE such as masks, gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin contact and inhalation of asbestos fibers. Proper use of PPE is critical in high risk areas.
Don’t Disturb Asbestos Containing Materials:
If you come across materials that may contain asbestos don’t disturb them. Instead contact a licensed asbestos removal professional to handle the situation safely.
Get Regular Health Checks:
If you have been exposed to asbestos get regular health checks to monitor your lung function and detect any potential health problems early. Early detection can make a big difference.
Quit Smoking:
Smoking can increase your risk of lung cancer and other asbestos related diseases. Quitting smoking can reduce your overall cancer risk and improve your lung health.
Avoid Secondary Exposure:
If you work with asbestos take precautions to not bring asbestos fibers home on your clothes or skin. This can prevent secondary exposure to your family members who may inhale them.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
Asbestos Laws and Legal Representation
The US Government has phased out most uses of asbestos and strictly regulates its handling and disposal. The US has banned chrysotile asbestos by 2024 which is the last form still being imported.
Agencies like CDC and IARC are key in disease control by assessing the risks and classifying materials based on their carcinogenicity. But individuals exposed to asbestos may still face serious health problems and have legal claims.
Why Get Legal Representation?
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos you may wish to consult with an attorney who is familiar with this complex area of law. An experienced asbestos litigation lawyer can:
Help you navigate asbestos trust fund claims and litigation to get the maximum compensation.
Guide you through the complex legal process of asbestos related cases.
Statutes of limitations vary by state so act fast.
Notable cases against manufacturers have created billions of dollars of asbestos trust funds to compensate victims.
Available 24/7
Frequently Asked Questions
When did asbestos start to be used?
Asbestos has been used since 4000 B.C. but industrial use started in the 1880s during the Industrial Revolution. By the 1970s awareness of health risks led to strict regulations.
What causes asbestos exposure?
Exposure occurs when asbestos fibers from disturbed materials are inhaled or ingested. This happens most during demolition, renovation or handling of asbestos containing products.
Who is most likely to have been exposed to asbestos?
Construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing workers are most at risk. People living in older homes or near industrial sites with asbestos contamination are also vulnerable.
What are the early signs of asbestos related diseases?
Symptoms take decades to appear but may include shortness of breath, persistent coughing, chest pain or abdominal swelling. If you experience these symptoms and suspect asbestos exposure get medical evaluation.
What to do if you have been exposed?
Tell your doctor about any known exposure and get regular screenings for asbestos related conditions. Early detection is critical.
Our Attorneys Have Over 100 Years of Combined Legal Experience.
37
Years of Experience
Charles E. Lampin
16
Years of Experience
Michael Boyd
38
Years of Experience
Ross Buehler
17
Years of Experience
