Asbestos is a substance that can cause several life-threatening diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. This dangerous mineral is no longer used as frequently as it was many years ago because of strict regulations. Unfortunately, even though asbestos is no longer being used as it was before the 1980s, there is a significant risk of people being exposed to legacy asbestos.
What is Legacy Asbestos?
Legacy asbestos was put in place before governments started regulating the use of asbestos, but it still presents a hazard. The passing of time and forgetting of asbestos that was put in place many years ago is what causes asbestos to become legacy asbestos. Unfortunately, most people do not know that legacy asbestos exists, and that is what makes legacy asbestos so dangerous.
Where Can You Find Legacy Asbestos?
Legacy asbestos can be found in older buildings and structures. Many buildings and structures built before the 1980s contain asbestos. This substance was used in buildings and structures because of its strength and heat resistance. Today, legacy asbestos can be found in places such as;
- Homes
- Offices
- Schools
- City landmarks
- Government buildings
Some products which may contain asbestos in buildings and structures include;
- Floor
- Drywall
- Ceiling tiles
- Roof shingles
- Pipe insulation
- Electrical wiring
Legacy asbestos is a major problem everywhere, especially in schools. This is because schools are often old and in need of renovations that never happen. Many schools built before the 1980s have asbestos in walls, around pipes, and in ceilings. Several schools in Philadelphia had to close some years back because of legacy asbestos.
Secondly, you can find legacy asbestos in automobiles. Asbestos was used in auto parts mainly because of its heat resistance. Asbestos can be found in various auto parts, such as clutches, brakes, gaskets, hood liners, and heat shields. People who work on or close to automobiles are at significant risk of asbestos exposure.
Additionally, legacy asbestos can be found in old home appliances, including;
- Stoves
- Toasters
- Ovens
- Dishwashers
- Dryers
- Hair dryers
- Washing machines
How Can You Protect Yourself From Legacy Asbestos?
As mentioned earlier, many people do not know about the existence of legacy asbestos, and for this reason, legacy asbestos is the most dangerous. If, for example, you live or work in a building that was built many years ago, before the dangers of asbestos became apparent, a company that specializes in asbestos can inspect the building and, if necessary, remove any asbestos that poses a threat.
It would be best if you never tried to remove legacy asbestos yourself. Asbestos abatement is a job that should be left to professionals. If you believe something is asbestos-contaminated, leave it alone or keep it isolated and call the professionals to conduct a survey. Attempting to remove asbestos would seriously endanger you and any other person around you. Disturbing this substance causes fibers to become airborne, and it is those fibers that cause deadly diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer when inhaled or ingested.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.