The United States banned use of asbestos in new construction projects more than three decades ago, but is still present in many older buildings as its heat insulation and fire resistance properties made it an ideal component of flooring, walls, ceilings and pipes.
But although many buildings still contain asbestos, as it wasn’t banned until the 1980s, there is no harm if they are left undisturbed, as asbestos is potentially harmful only when crushed and inhaled.
Two of the serious health issues which arise from inhaling the airborne fibers are lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the chest and abdominal cavity. However, since symptoms don’t usually appear until around 20 to 30 years after the exposure, it can be difficult to know for certain if a person is at risk.
In order to protect people from the dangers, any time someone wants to carry out modifications to a public building they must first submit a work order request to the Department of Public Works. DPW will then check the building for asbestos to determine if a trained professional is required to remove or deal with it. This would include even something as simple as pulling up a carpet or drilling holes as you never know what lies beneath the carpet or inside the wall.
If you or someone you know is suffering from an asbestos related disease, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer, contact the Law Office of Brayton Purcell, LLP at (800) 598-0314 immediately, or contact us online for a free consultation. You may be entitled to an asbestos payout as part of an individual or class action lawsuit.
