Jobsite Asbestos and Mesothelioma Resources

Samantha Catalano from the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center contacted me about some of the different resources and information they provide. The sites looks to be a great resource of information, namely the free informational packet they send out. Here’s some basic information for you. Jobsite safety is a concern for all employers and their workers nationwide. There are an array of on-the-job hazards that present a potential risk, and one such hazard is that of asbestos. Asbestos is an occupational danger that many individuals may not consider, but it is a very real threat. There are millions of professionals in the U.S. that may be exposed to asbestos while at work, including mechanics, firefighters, damage restoration technicians, custodians, contractors, engineers, miners, steel workers, power plant workers, and more. Asbestos-containing materials are present in over 35 million buildings nationwide, including residences and workplaces. Asbestos was also commonly found in many structural implements prior to the 1980’s, including insulation, drywall, acoustical plaster, roofing tiles, floor and ceiling tiles, and more. When these materials are disturbed or damaged, the tiny asbestos fibers may become friable, putting workers on various jobsites at risk for inhalation. If inhaled, these tiny fibers, which have a claw-like structure, can cling to the pleural lining of the lungs for an upward of fifty years before an individual may experience symptoms related to mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a deadly form of lung cancer that has no known cure and a survival rate of less than 1%. There are a variety of methods that should be applied on any jobsite where they may be asbestos present. Proper ventilation is crucial in any workspace where individuals may interact with asbestos-containing materials. In addition, all workers should wear protective gear, such as eyewear, disposable clothing, and gloves. Masks or self-contained breathing apparatuses should be worn at all times to avoid inhalation of asbestos fibers. All workers who may handle asbestos should also be informed of proper asbestos removal and disposal regulations and must adhere to these guidelines to ensure safety. Exposure to asbestos may manifest itself decades later in the form of a deadly lung cancer. Workers who may handle asbestos should take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their work environment. If an individual suspects that they have been exposed to asbestos while at work, they should consult a physician as soon as possible. The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is a great resource for information related to asbestos exposure, mesothelioma, mesothelioma treatment options, and more. Please visit them for more information.