Asbestos hazards are real and dangerous. Sadly, not everyone is aware of the health risks of asbestos exposure and its link to mesothelioma. One way to raise awareness of the health threats of the mineral is to create additional resources that can be used to educate the public.
Recently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) produced an updated Fact Sheet covering the hazards of asbestos. OHSA has been proactive in protecting workers from the hazards of asbestos since 1971 and the updated fact sheet was another step in this direction.
The Fact Sheet contains detailed information covering the following topics:
- What is asbestos? Asbestos is a mineral fiber that occurs in the environment naturally. It was often used in building materials and products and was praised for its heat-resistant capabilities. Especially when the fibers are released into the air, asbestos is a known human carcinogen.
- Where is asbestos located? The mineral is often used in the manufacturing of various products, including vehicle parts. It can be found during construction, demolition or renovation of older buildings.
- OSHA Standards. There are three Standards to protect workers from asbestos exposure, which cover general industry, shipyards and construction.
- What protections exist in the Standards? The Fact Sheet covers Standards such as Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), assessment of workplaces, monitoring, proper hazard communication, decontamination, training requirements, medical surveillance and record keeping.
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) played a role in the production of the updated Asbestos Fact Sheet. When ADAO was in Washington, D.C. in July 2013, the organization met with Dr. David Michaels, Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA, to discuss the dangers of asbestos and the need for updated educational resources to spread the word to the public.
Advocates for mesothelioma victims are also essential to raising awareness for asbestos exposure. The Firm is committed to our clients, employees and communities who have been impacted by asbestos exposure, mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. We have donated nearly $20 million to cancer research in an effort to enhance current treatments and ultimately, find a cure.
You can read the full OSHA Asbestos Fact Sheet here.