Mesothelioma and Insulation and Floor Installers
Insulation and Floor Installers and Asbestos
Asbestos, the fibrous mineral, has some of the most amazing properties. The material is:• Fire resistant
• Resistant to chemical degradation
• A poor conductor of electricity
• Has very high tensile strength
• Has exceptionally good frictional properties
• Highly malleable
In the US, asbestos gained great popularity with the advent of the steam engine. It provided the best solution to the problem of heat build-up. It was used as insulation in turbines, boilers, pipes, furnaces, ovens, and other high temperature areas. Refrigeration units, boxcars, steam water lines, and pipelines in factories were insulated using asbestos. Additionally, asbestos found its way into homes through asbestos-reinforced floor and roofing material.
Where Was Asbestos Used?
Insulation and floor installers are amongst the most vulnerable to the threat of exposure. In early 1900s, asbestos was used in almost all kinds of insulation. Workers, who installed the insulation, ran a very high risk of asbestos exposure because they were in close contact with the material. But the threat does not end there.Insulation and floor tile installers are often called in to perform maintenance work. A lot of the insulation used in factories and buildings shows definite signs of wear and tear. A worker who is not conscious of the presence of asbestos may be exposed to it inadvertently. If previous abatement or repair work has been tardy, chances of exposure to flaking asbestos is higher still.
When Is Asbestos Dangerous?
Asbestos becomes dangerous the moment it is exposed to air. Asbestos breaks up into fine microscopic fibers that are lethal to humans. The more frayed and damaged the product, the greater the hazard associated with it. Asbestos fibers, when released into the air, continue to be airborne for long periods. Thus, these particles are easily ingested by humans.Asbestos Related Diseases
However, since asbestos-related diseases can surface anywhere between 20-40 years after exposure, workers who had worked with asbestos any time in their careers may still be at risk.
