Amanda Antell  |  June 29, 2019

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Asbestos Overview

Asbestos is a fibrous material that is mined for various commercial and industrial purposes. Asbestos occurs in six forms and is divided into two major groups: serpentine and amphibole. The serpentine asbestos includes chrysotile forms, which is the form that was widely used in insulation and other similar applications according to the National Cancer Institute.

Asbestos was popularly used before the 1980s for its fire and chemical resistant qualities, as well as being cheap to use for manufacturers. However, asbestos health concerns have become a major issue in litigation due to the long term health complications associated with the material.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), companies must take precautions to reduce the risk of asbestos exposure. This means having a proper safety protocol in place, making sure the level of asbestos in the work environment is at a minimum, and providing necessary protective equipment. If the legal limits of asbestos are breached, companies are required to conduct medical monitoring of workers until further notice.

Lawsuits filed over asbestos health concerns have alleged manufacturers and employers failed to enforce these safety standards, while also allegedly failing to provide adequate disclosures regarding asbestos exposure.

Overview of Asbestos Health Concerns

Asbestos exposure is associated with a multitude of serious health problems, according to WebMD, with asbestos lung cancer and mesothelioma being among the most serious. Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer that develops in the mucus lining of the lungs, which is specifically caused by asbestos exposure.

When asbestos fibers are released into the air, they can be inadvertently inhaled or swallowed. This allows the fibers to potentially cause scarring in the lungs or its mucus lining, and may eventually manifest into cancer years later. It is important to note that mesothelioma can take decades to develop to the point of showing symptoms, which can delay diagnosis.

Along with asbestos lung cancer and mesothelioma, asbestosis is also a significant health concern and is a non-cancerous, yet long term condition in the lungs. There is currently no cure for mesothelioma or asbestos lung cancer, with treatment varying between patients and severity.

Asbestos lawsuits often seek compensation for past and future medical expenses related to mesothelioma or other related diseases.

Where Can Asbestos Be Found?

Asbestos was used in practically every aspect of manufacturing and industrial use, but the peak of its popularity was during World War II when it was implemented in the construction of numerous Navy ships. Because of this, asbestos can be found in ships and shipyards associated with the United States Navy with pipe-fitters and similar occupations the most at risk.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned new uses of asbestos in 1989, asbestos used before this time is still allowed. This means that older buildings and materials may have asbestos in them, with the EPA requiring that school systems inspect buildings for asbestos presence in older facilities.

The most at risk occupations include but are not limited to:

  • Shipyard workers
  • Asbestos miners
  • Mill workers
  • Construction
  • Electricians
  • Firefighters
  • Plumbers
  • Automobile workers
  • Demolition workers

 

With this in mind, according to the EPA, asbestos can typically be found in locations including:

  • Attic and wall insulation containing vermiculite
  • Vinyl floor tiles
  • Roofing and siding shingles
  • Textured paint and patching compounds on walls and ceilings
  • Hot water and steam pipes with asbestos coatings
  • Automobile clutches and brakes

 

For more information, check out The Complete Guide to Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuits & Settlements!

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