The Release of Asbestos After Natural Disasters

Asbestos has been used for thousands of years as a insulator against flame. While lung damage from this material was noted even in Greek and Roman times, it was not until the mid-1950s that doctors formally established the link between asbestos and mesothelioma. Now, most new buildings do not use asbestos. However, natural disasters can cause a release of these dangerous fibers from older buildings.

Asbestos is a silicate mineral that has many appealing properties for the construction industry. Not only does it resist flame, it it also insulates against heat, chemicals, and electricity. Additionally, this material is strong as well as flexible, which means that is easily added to things like concrete. Also, at one point, asbestos could be found in everything from vinyl flooring to ceiling tiles, wall insulation to pipe insulation. This means that older buildings can house large amounts of asbestos.

Thankfully, this mineral is not dangerous until it flakes off into smaller pieces. Once microscopic fibers are released into the air, you can inhale or ingest the fibers, where they can get lodged into your body. Your body is unable to break them down, so it forms lumps or nodules around the fibers. This can turn into cancerous tumors.

When asbestos is present in older buildings, natural disasters can cause the release of microscopic, damaging fibers. As older structures are torn apart by things like fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, etc., the asbestos insulation in the building can get broken apart as well. Thus, people who help clean up this damage are susceptible to asbestos exposure. Additionally, even nearby communities can have asbestos fibers blown to them in the wind. Sadly, even a one-time exposure to asbestos can result in health problems such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural effusions.

If you suffered from asbestos exposure, resulting in health issues like mesothelioma, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your pain and suffering. To learn more, please visit the Mesothelioma Help Center today.