Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was once hailed as a miracle material for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat. However, the dangers of asbestos exposure have since been widely recognized, and its use has been heavily regulated in many countries.
In this article, you will see the causes and consequences of asbestos exposure and identify five industries with an increased risk of exposure.
What Is Asbestos Exposure?
Asbestos exposure occurs when asbestos fibers appear in a person’s body through inhaling or even ingestion. These microscopic fibers can become airborne when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, damaged, or deteriorate over time.
If they are accidentally inhaled through the air in your surroundings or ingested through contaminated foods, they can become lodged into your lungs causing severe and sometimes even permanent damage.
Types of Asbestos Fibers
Six different types of asbestos fibers can be grouped into two categories: serpentine and amphibole. Serpentine asbestos, which includes chrysotile, is the most common type and has curly fibers. Amphibole asbestos, which includes amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite, has straight, needle-like fibers.
While all types of asbestos are hazardous, amphibole asbestos is considered more dangerous due to its ability to penetrate deeper into lung tissue.
How Asbestos Exposure Occurs
Asbestos exposure can occur in various ways, including the following:
- Disturbing asbestos-containing materials during construction, demolition, or maintenance activities
- Working with asbestos-containing products, such as insulation, tiles, or brake linings
- Living or working in buildings with deteriorating asbestos-containing materials
- Disturbing asbestos-contaminated soil
Consequences of Asbestos Exposure
The story of asbestos exposure at Sugarman Brothers Paper Company serves as a prime example of the devastating effects that asbestos can have on workers and their families. Below are some consequences of it.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease resulting from inhaling asbestos fibers. Over time, these fibers cause scarring and inflammation in lung tissue, leading to difficulty breathing and a decreased ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. Symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain.
Like a cancer diagnosis, asbestos has no cure. Treatment options mainly focus on preventative measures and managing symptoms to reduce discomfort in a patient’s life.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lungs, chest cavity, or abdomen lining. According to many researchers, the primary cause is asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma has a long latency period, often taking 20 to 50 years to develop after initial asbestos exposure. You may experience breathing problems, chest pain, and sometimes significant but unexplained weight loss.
Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure can contribute to the development of lung cancer in your body. Like mesothelioma, lung cancer may take many years to develop after exposure, and symptoms may not appear until the disease is advanced. The symptoms include intense and consistent cough and chest pains.
5 Industries That Have Increased Risk of Asbestos Exposure
Construction Industry
Construction workers are at a high risk of asbestos exposure due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in buildings constructed before the 1980s. Renovation, demolition, and maintenance activities can release asbestos fibers into the air, putting workers at risk.
Shipbuilding Industry
Asbestos was once heavily used in shipbuilding for its heat-resistant properties. Workers involved in ship construction, maintenance, and repair may be exposed to asbestos in insulation, gaskets, and other materials.
Automotive Industry
Asbestos was widely used in the automotive industry, particularly in brake linings and clutch components. Mechanics and other automotive workers may be exposed to asbestos when repairing or replacing these parts.
Power Generation Industry
Power plants often use asbestos-containing materials for insulation and fireproofing due to their heat resistance. Workers in the power generation industry may be exposed to asbestos during maintenance, repair, or demolition activities.
Manufacturing Industry
Workers in various manufacturing industries may be at risk of asbestos exposure if they handle or work with asbestos-containing materials or products. Examples include the production of insulation, cement, and textiles.
Conclusion
Asbestos exposure poses significant health risks, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. While the use of this has decreased significantly in recent years, workers in certain industries, such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive, power generation, and manufacturing, still face increased risks of exposure. It is crucial for employers and employees in these industries to be extra cautious of their health.
