Who is most likely to be at risk?
Nearly everyone is exposed to asbestos at some point during their life. Drinking water may contain asbestos from natural sources, or from asbestoscontaining cement pipes. Asbestos fibers may be released into the air during product use, or home repair and remodeling.
However, most people are not affected from such exposures. People who become ill from asbestos are generally those who are exposed to it on a regular basis; i.e. industrial workers who maintain substantial contact with the material. Health hazards from asbestos fibers have been recognized in workers from shipbuilding trades, asbestos mining and milling, manufacturing of asbestos textiles and other asbestos products, insulation work in the construction and building trades, demolition work, and automobile brake and clutch repair. Although, there is some evidence that family members of workers heavily exposed to asbestos face an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, as exposure to asbestos fibers brought into the home on the shoes, clothing, skin, and hair of workers can occur.
Other Asbestos FAQs
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What is asbestos and what is it used for?
Asbestos is a group of fibrous, naturally occurring minerals found in soil and rock that can be separated and spun into long threads. The three most common types of … more -
Is asbestos hazardous to your health? Can it cause diseases?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the EPA have determined that asbestos is in fact a human carcinogen, and that breathing high levels of … more -
Has the federal government made regulations to decrease asbestos exposure?
Yes. In 1989, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned all new uses of asbestos; however, uses established prior to 1989 are still permitted. … more -
Can I file an asbestos-related lawsuit?
Although the EPA has made regulations to promote protection from asbestos, and organizations such as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) … more
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