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Our mesothelioma attorneys note that a recent article in England’s Daily Mail tackles an issue too seldom discussed: Your increased risk for asbestos exposure when undertaking do-it-yourself (‘DIY’) projects.
Asbestos was used in a wide variety of home construction materials for most of the 20th Century. Consequently, many DIY projects result in substantial risk of asbestos exposure. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports building products containing asbestos were routinely used in home construction well into the 1970s. Common products containing asbestos include furnace ducts, boilers, floor tiles, cement sheeting, patching and joint compound, roofing cement and shingles and automotive car parts, including brake pads.
The Mail reports that a mesothelioma diagnosis for an 81-year-old orthopedic surgeon was recently traced to asbestos exposure that resulted from the doctor’s removal of a boiler from his home. Asbestos exposure can lead to a diagnosis of mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer that attacks the membrane around internal organs. The latency period can be more than 30 years, however, even short-term exposure has been linked to the development of the cancer.
The number of people dying each year from mesothelioma has quadrupled in the last 30 years as those exposed in the 1960s and 1970s are diagnosed. Experts are concerns homeowners may unwittingly disturb asbestos while tackling home renovation projects. The Brits have even launched a program “Take 5 to Stay Alive,” which encourages property owners to consider the risk for asbestos exposure before tackling a DIY project.
“I am amazed at how many people have absolutely no knowledge of the danger they place themselves in when they start renovations,” said Christine Winters of the Independent Asbestos Training Program.
Homeowners should not rely on carpenters or trade workers to assess the risk of exposure. In fact, companies are routinely found to have improperly exposed employees to asbestos during commercial or residential renovation projects. The responsibility ultimately lies with the homeowner.
EPA Do’s and Don’ts for Homeowners:
-Keep activities to a minimum in areas containing exposed or damaged asbestos.
-Have trained professionals tackle removal or repair.
-Don’t saw or drill asbestos-containing materials.
-Don’t use abrasive brushes or strippers on asbestos flooring.
-Don’t track construction debris through the house.
-Take every precaution not to damage asbestos material — airborne asbestos has the highest risks.
-Do not dust, sweep or vacuum debris containing asbestos. Dust should be removed with wet mop or special HEPA vacuums used by trained contractors.
-Upon completion, the construction area should be free of dust and debris. Air monitoring may be necessary to assure any exposure risk has abated.
It’s critical that residential or commercial asbestos removal be done by trained professionals. A removal professional may also assess the site and determine whether construction materials contain asbestos. A property owner should require a contractor to document completion of federal or state-approved asbestos-removal training. Your state or local health department may also have a list of licensed professionals in your area.
Additional Resources:
How a few minutes of DIY can end up costing you your life: Hidden asbestos in homes putting millions at risk from deadly lung disease, By Anna Hodgekiss, Daily Mail, Aug. 27, 2012.
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do I know if I need a mesothelioma lawyer for my case?
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or suspect that you were exposed to asbestos in a work setting or through asbestos containing products, speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer can help clarify your legal rights. At Ferraro Law, we assess the details of your situation, identify companies responsible, and explain the legal process so you can determine if pursuing a mesothelioma claim aligns with your needs. This initial guidance provides a clear direction for mesothelioma victims seeking meaningful support.
02.
What can I expect from working with a mesothelioma law firm?
03.
Will I need to go to court if I’m seeking compensation for asbestos exposure?
04.
How long does asbestos litigation usually take?
05.
How can a mesothelioma law firm help me handle the financial burdens of my illness?
06.
How do I know if my asbestos exposure is connected to my mesothelioma diagnosis?
07.
Is it too late to file a mesothelioma claim if I was diagnosed years ago?
08.
What if I’m not sure which companies are responsible for my asbestos exposure?
09.
Can a mesothelioma law firm assist if my loved one passed away from asbestos-related illness?
10.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims means that we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
11.
Will hiring a mesothelioma lawyer add to my financial strain?
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