All About Asbestos and Exposure
The words naturally occurring asbestos refer to this material as an element of rocks or soil rather than as asbestos in manufacturing processes, mining or construction projects. It is a silicate mineral that has the highest rate of fire and thermal resistance among naturally occurring elements. The materials have been structured into three categories: what everyone should know. This includes what asbestos use is and its effect on human health.
Asbestos, as we all know is a naturally occurring mineral that has long been linked to various lung diseases including mesothelioma. However, there has been a recent spike in its occurrence in many different places around the globe. What’s more important to know is that there is no real risk in its use as there would be if the materials were intentionally used. The risk in exposure comes from two sources: from direct exposure and from inhalation of fibers that are released in the air. Since it is not feasible to remove all naturally occurring asbestos from the Earth, regulations have been put in place to limit exposure to these materials.
The fibers come from naturally occurring asbestos waste materials such as discarded roof shingles, insulation, pipe insulation, roof tiles and other building materials. These materials are released into the environment and since they are airborne, they settle onto the ground and remain there for millions of years. Once there, changes in the soil surrounding them will slowly break down the asbestos into microscopic fibers that can become airborne. Over time, this airborne dust can become settled in the lungs of individuals when they breathe in these particles.
In most cases, individuals exposed to naturally occurring asbestos fibers will experience no symptoms, but it is always best to err on the side of caution. Symptoms of lung disease include shortness of breath, chest pains, coughing, difficulty in breathing, chest congestion, chest pains when lying flat, fever, and weight loss. While these symptoms are often mild, some individuals may experience severe symptoms including extreme fatigue, coughing fits, chest pains, and fluid in the lungs or abdomen. If you believe you have had any of these symptoms without prior illness, you should seek medical attention immediately to ensure that your condition is not a result of exposure to naturally occurring asbestos.
As the EPA evaluates naturally occurring asbestos disposal sites in California, they have placed a special stipulation into the Clean Air Act that requires owners of certain types of buildings to test their air for asbestos before demolition and renovation. This stipulation applies to both commercial and residential buildings with asbestos in the walls. In order to be assessed, the test for a in pdf needs to be performed by an accredited inspector who has previously served in the field. If the inspector determines that asbestos particles in the air are present, the building owner is then required to take the necessary steps to mitigate the potential health risks presented by the material. However, in order to take this step, the owner must first know about the presence of the asbestos, as well as the concentration level of the asbestos in the air.
If you believe that you have been exposed to naturally occurring asbestos, you will need to obtain the services of a personal health attorney who specializes in this area of the law. Asbestos attorneys are experienced in addressing all types of asbestos exposure cases, including a dc of exposure, which is the type of exposure most commonly associated with the older, unlined homes built prior to 1978. Having this type of specialized legal representation will enable you to receive the most comprehensive compensation available. You may be able to receive compensation from your home owner’s insurance company to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other related costs. Having the necessary legal assistance can make a huge difference in receiving the compensation you deserve, and it is something you do not want to be without when making claims for your health effects from exposure to naturally occurring asbestos.
