Sarah Markley  |  April 25, 2018

Category: Labor & Employment

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Asbestos removal worker. Dangerous waste disposal - professional works with old architecture.Many of those who work in industries where exposure to asbestos is common are not aware that their families may be at risk for secondary asbestos exposure.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally in the earth that has been mined for centuries. In the twentieth century, the use of asbestos gained particular popularity because it is flame retardant, heat resistant, and has superior insulation qualities.

It was used extensively in the production practices of many industries such as shipbuilding, auto parts, shipping, the military and both commercial and private instruction.

When left undisturbed, asbestos particles are not harmless. However, if asbestos particles are disrupted, they can be released into the air. Asbestos particles, when inhaled or ingested, cannot be expelled by the body.

Over time, asbestos particles in the body cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to tumors and the development of cancer cells. Asbestos-related complications, some of them deadly, can result. Asbestosis, asbestos lung cancer and mesothelioma are all risks of asbestos exposure.

Many people who have worked for industries where asbestos is regularly used are exposed to asbestos and are at risk for various health problems. However, many do not know that asbestos particles can be carried home on the clothing of those who are regularly exposed. Secondary asbestos exposure is a real concern and can place family members at risk for the same cancers and conditions.

Secondary Asbestos Exposure

In the 20th century, men who worked in industries such as construction were at higher risk of developing cancer relating to asbestos than other workers. But, secondary asbestos exposure was more common among women and children.

Those who worked in industries where primary asbestos exposure was common may have brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, shoes and tools and in their hair. Those who live with them, primarily wives and their children, may have unknowingly experienced secondary asbestos exposure.

Secondary asbestos exposure is just as dangerous as primary exposure. Either type of exposure, over a long period of time, can trigger asbestos lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the cancer of the lining of the lungs. It is life-threatening and is almost always caused by either primary or secondary asbestos exposure.

Over one hundred and twenty years ago, in 1897, a doctor made a note of the ill health of the families of workers who worked with asbestos. Throughout the twentieth century, other cases of fatal secondary asbestos exposure were noted.

Secondary asbestos exposure is also known as household exposure, take home exposure, paraoccupational exposure, domestic exposure, indirect exposure and secondhand exposure.

These days, employers must provide workers with facilities in which to change in and out of work clothes so that they do not bring their asbestos-laden clothes home with them. They must also provide shower facilities.

Regular laundry methods do not wash asbestos out of clothes, so employers must also utilize special laundering facilities to clean clothes contaminated with asbestos.

Because mesothelioma has a long latency period, between 20 and 50 years, children who experience secondary asbestos exposure do not develop the disease until well into adulthood.

If you suspect that you or someone you love has experienced secondary asbestos exposure, you may benefit from speaking with an attorney.

Do YOU have a legal claim? Fill out the form on this page now for a free, immediate, and confidential case evaluation. The attorneys who work with Top Class Actions will contact you if you qualify to let you know if an individual asbestos lawsuit or asbestos class action lawsuit is best for you. [In general, asbestos lung cancer lawsuits are filed individually by each plaintiff and are not class actions.] Hurry — statutes of limitations may apply.

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Join a Free Asbestos Lung Cancer Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma, lung cancer, or cancer in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or chest cavity, you may be able to take legal action against the companies responsible. Don’t delay – in most states the statute of limitations is two years to file an asbestos lawsuit after you’re diagnosed. Obtain a free and confidential case evaluation be filling out the form below.

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