Where You Might Have Been Exposed to Asbestos

Asbestos was an extremely common ingredient in building materials and other products for the better half of a century. As a result, this dangerous naturally-occurring substance can be found in homes, workplaces, as well as other buildings.  Unfortunately, a lot of exposure happened in the workplace.

The Construction Industry

The construction industry was known for its once liberal use of building supplies that contained asbestos. This is because asbestos is both heat and fire resistant.  It is also resistant to chemicals and non-conductive to electricity. The use of asbestos started in the late 1800s and continued unhindered until the late 1970s. As of 1989, asbestos is permitted in products and uses designed prior to 1989, but it is banned for any new uses.

Common applications of asbestos in the construction industry include, but are not limited to:

• Strengthening cement and plastics
• Insulation
• Roofing
• Fireproofing
• Soundproofing
• Ceiling and floor tiles
• Paints
• Coatings
• Adhesives
• Plastics

The Shipbuilding Industry

Due to its heat and fire resistant properties, asbestos was once a popular and common material for insulation.  Shipbuilding companies have used it as insulation for:

• Boilers
• Steam pipes.
• Hot water pipes.

Automotive Industry

The automotive industry has also used asbestos, although applications in this industry may not be as prevalent as in other industries. The most common uses for asbestos were:

• Brake shoes
• Clutch pads

Asbestos Can Still Be Found in Unexpected Places

Anyone that has worked in these industries or in any industry that comes into contact with asbestos has had the opportunity to be exposed to it. This includes emergency responders, such as the ones that answered the call on 9/11. The WTC was built with asbestos and many first responders complained of difficulty breathing at the time. Some have even developed related health problems since then.

Who is Eligible to Receive Compensation?

Lawsuits have become routine for those affected by asbestos. This has left many lawyers, including Pennsylvania asbestos lawyers, experienced and current on the laws and the correct way to build a lawsuit for compensation.

Many people have been exposed while on the job, having to work in environments that did not meet safety standards imposed by OSHA. If you are looking for an asbestos lawyer in Pennsylvania, you are sure to find qualified and experienced help at Goldberg, Persky & White.  As pioneers in this field, our team will help you fight for the compensation you deserve.