Asbestos is a substance that is hazardous to human health. It was first used for insulation because it is able to resist heat and pressure. Recently, scientists learned that exposure to asbestos could cause serious health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and lung cancer. Asbestos is no longer used in manufacturing or building, but older buildings may still contain asbestos around pipes, in ceiling tiles or in the walls. Any building containing asbestos may release asbestos into the air at any time, exposing those who enter the building.
If you or your children live, work, or go to school in an older building, you may have been exposed to asbestos. You may also collect asbestos dust on your shoes, clothing or hair. If this happens, you may bring asbestos into your home, exposing your family members.
If you are exposed to asbestos, you probably won’t show any symptoms for a long time, often as long as forty years. Because it takes so long to show symptoms, it is important that you understand how you might be exposed to asbestos so that, if you show any symptoms later in life, you can be treated quickly. The following information, provided by a Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC mesothelioma lawyer, is meant to help you identify whether you may have been exposed to asbestos.
Asbestos Exposure at Work
Shipbuilders
Shipbuilders have a high risk of developing cancer due to asbestos cancer. This risk is higher for those who worked in shipyards between World War II and the Korean War. During this time, asbestos was used as insulation in ships’ steam pipes, boilers, incinerators, and hot water pipes. Because these areas were poorly ventilated, asbestos dust would build up, exposing shipbuilders to large quantities of asbestos.
Plant Workers
The generators and turbines found in plants and factories used to contain asbestos, particularly in the gaskets, pipes, and insulation. As a result, many plant workers who worked in oil refineries, chemical plants, and power plants have been exposed to asbestos.
Construction
If you worked in the construction industry, you may have been exposed to asbestos fibers that were in the building materials you used. Before 1980, asbestos was often used as insulation in buildings. Additionally, many other building products contained asbestos, including:
- Fireproofing products
- Spackling and taping compounds
- Tiles, siding, and roofing materials
- Cement pipe and sheet material
- Ductwork
- Elevator equipment
- Gaskets
Other Industries
Other workers who may have been exposed to asbestos include firefighters, railroad workers, automobile mechanics, machinists, plumbers and electricians.
Other Forms of Asbestos Exposure
Materials Found in Older Homes
Asbestos may also be found in older homes and classrooms. The following materials may contain asbestos:
- Insulation
- Fireproofing products
- Certain textiles, such as blankets, protective coverings and strong cords
- Spackling and taping compounds
- Cement pipe and sheet material
- Tiles, siding and roofing materials
- Gaskets
- Elevator equipment
- Ductwork
- Chalkboards
Consumer Products Manufactured Before 1980
Some consumer products manufactured before 1980 may also contain asbestos. Such products include:
- Home appliances
- Wood-burning stoves
- Handheld hair dryers
- Irons
- Toasters
If you bought any products before 1980, you should probably replace them to ensure that you are not exposed to asbestos.
What to Do If You Think You Have Been Exposed to Asbestos
If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos, visit your doctor immediately. Tell your doctor that you think you have been exposed to asbestos and explain any symptoms you may have experienced. Early detection of asbestos exposure is often the key to treating and surviving mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related illnesses.
Additionally, there are a number of laws that protect those who have been exposed to asbestos. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important that you contact a Maryland, Virginia, or Washington DC asbestos lawyer to help you. If you are in need of an attorney, contact a Maryland, Washington DC or Virginia Mesothelioma attorney at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson, DePaolis & Lightfoot, L.L.P., today.
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