Image by Jennifer Beebe from Pixabay
Asbestos was praised for its fire resistance and durability in the past, but these days, it is known as a major cause of serious illnesses. This includes lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. New uses of the material were prohibited in 1989, but the threat is still very real.
Where Asbestos Still Lingers
Asbestos was mostly used in structures that were built before the 1980s. Then it was commonly used in almost everything, including insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing, and even plumbing materials.
During renovations, building demolition, or even routine wear, these materials can get disturbed. When this happens, tiny asbestos fibers are released into the air. Once these fibers are inhaled, they can remain in the lungs of a person for years before leading to a disease.
Schools and Public Buildings
Schools and public buildings are common areas of concern. Thanks to federal laws, schools must undergo inspection and proper management of asbestos. Yet, aging buildings still pose a big risk.
If a child breathes in asbestos fibers, it can lead to long-term health problems and even threaten their lives. This high level of vulnerability is because their lungs tend to retain these microscopic particles for long.
Factories and Industrial Sites
Other common sources of asbestos are factories and industrial sites. For example, back then in Michigan, manufacturing facilities and auto plants used asbestos in insulation, gaskets, and brakes.
The asbestos fibers stayed on the workers’ clothing, which they wore home and unknowingly exposed their families. This type of exposure is known as secondary exposure and is responsible for many cases of mesothelioma in spouses and children.
Environment
Even with our best efforts, asbestos still lingers in the environment. The fibers can remain in water and soil for decades. Even after the original material has been discarded, this remnant can continue to pose serious risks. Asbestos-contaminated soil is still present in several communities in the United States.
Hidden Risks in Consumer Products
Asbestos contamination has been discovered in talc products since the 1970s. Since talc is obtained from the same deposits as asbestos, the fibers can contaminate talc powders if there is a lapse during processing. Individuals who use talc-based powders every day for years may have been exposed to asbestos, which can lead to being diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Why Awareness Still Matters
The challenge with asbestos-related diseases is their latency period. For example, it can take up to 40 years after exposure before mesothelioma develops. What that means is that these risks are caused by materials from decades ago.
Without proper awareness, families may unknowingly disturb asbestos during renovations, and parents may not realize how dangerous aging school buildings are. If you have been exposed to asbestos, law firms such as mesothelioma attorneys in Michigan can help you get compensation from companies responsible for the exposure.
Endnote
The threat of asbestos is still real, which is why proper awareness is essential. To protect our families from long-lasting health problems, we need to know where these toxic fibers may be hiding and hold companies accountable for their negligence.
