Many older buildings are still used by businesses today. While they are typically safe, they may come with some increased hazards. One of these has to do with the building materials that are used. If there are any materials that contain asbestos, exposure risks must be suitably addressed to keep employees safe.
Asbestos was once popular because it’s resistant to corrosion, heat, and fire. It was commonly used for insulation, ceiling materials, roofing products, flooring, cement products and a host of other materials. As long as materials that contain asbestos aren’t manipulated, they don’t pose much of a risk. However, they are a significant risk if they’re manipulated and the fibers become airborne.
Renovations can sometimes lead to asbestos exposure
Older buildings may undergo a renovation, which means that the asbestos fibers might be released into the air. This can happen when something is drilled, cut, sanded, demolished, renovated or maintained. Workers can also release asbestos fibers into the air by repairing pipes, removing old flooring or disturbing insulation. The issue with asbestos fibers is that they’re too small to see, so a person can be exposed without knowing.
Asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, which is a fatal lung disease. It can take decades to appear after the asbestos exposure, but it can progress quickly once symptoms appear. Workers who were exposed to asbestos should ensure they get immediate medical attention if they have any signs of mesothelioma, such as shortness of breath, chest pain or persistent cough.
Mesothelioma can physically and financially devastate a victim, so it’s critical that they learn about their legal options. It’s possible to seek compensation for financial damages, but there are time limits in place. Working with a legal professional who understands these cases may be beneficial as a result.