Asbestos

Asbestos refers to a group of natural, fibrous minerals that have been used in the construction trades for the past 200 years. Asbestos is considered a Group A human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection agency and its production and use has been strictly regulated and, in some circumstances, prohibited. Exposure to asbestos is attributed to fatal diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.

Asbestos fibers are derived from serpentine and amphibole rocks. They are flexible and although they can be broken down into microscopic particles, the fibers do not evaporate, dissolve, burn, or undergo any significant reactions with chemicals. Asbestos fibers are also non-biodegradable. Thus, asbestos has served as a very durable material for fireproofing, insulation, drywall, and other items used in the construction industries.

There are various forms of asbestos, and their toxicities vary by type. Chrysotile (white asbestos), derived from serpentine rock, is the most common variety of asbestos used in the United States. It is often present in a wide variety of materials, including sheetrock taping, mud and texture coats, vinyl floor tiles, sheeting, adhesives and ceiling tiles, plasters and stuccos, roofing tars, felts, siding and shingles, wall paneling, siding, countertops and pipes, acoustical ceilings, fireproofing, putty, caulk, gaskets, clutch plates, stage curtains, and fire blankets.

Asbestos fibers derived from amphibole rocks, amosite (brown asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos), are considered more harmful than white asbestos. Brown asbestos and blue asbestos were used in many products in the United States until the mid-1980s, when their use was banned due to their high toxicity and carcinogenic effects. Products manufactured from brown or blue asbestos included casings for water and other utility lines, low-density insulation boards and ceiling tiles, asbestos-cement sheets and pipes, and thermal and chemical insulation such as fire rated doors and automobile gaskets.

Exposure to asbestos is known to cause specific diseases that primarily affect the respiratory system. Additionally, asbestos exposure has been linked to diseases that affect the immune, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems. Most of the diseases caused by asbestos exposure do not manifest symptoms until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure. Oftentimes symptoms do not appear until the asbestos-associated disease has reached a terminal stage.

Have You Been Exposed to Asbestos?

A number of life-threatening diseases, such as mesothelioma, are attributable to asbestos exposure. The majority of asbestos-related diseases have affected workers in the construction industries (carpenters, shipyard workers, pipe fitter, etc.). However, because asbestos has a tendency to fraction into microscopic particles when it is disturbed, those who work around asbestos fibers and asbestos dust may carry asbestos dust on their clothing. Consequently, family members of those directly exposed to asbestos have an increased risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses.

If you or a family member has suffered from a disease related to asbestos exposure, such as mesothelioma, and you would like to discuss your rights with a professional, please fill out the short form below and a member of Seeger Weiss's experienced legal staff will contact you. Initial consultations are free of charge and do not create a legal relationship. Seeger Weiss LLP maintains offices located in New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia and its attorneys are available to practice throughout the country.