Even though this toxic substance is no longer widely used, it still turns up in certain industries here in Ohio as it does elsewhere in the country. As a result, workers in those industries continue to face the possibility of asbestos exposure. The danger from this substance remains high enough that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration continues to enforce regulations regarding the safety of workers when it comes to the use of this naturally occurring mineral fiber.
For instance, structures built prior to 1981 could contain numerous materials laden with it. When construction crews demolish a portion or all of such buildings, it is possible to cause fibers and dust to become airborne, and then inhaled by workers. Roof and ceiling tiles, floor tiles and shingles on a building could contain asbestos. In addition, heat resistant textiles, caulking, plaster and cement in older buildings could also contain this toxic substance.
Working in the automotive industry could result in exposure to this material as well. The lining of many brakes and pads of many clutches still contain asbestos. Working with these parts without the proper protections could result in the inhalation of its dust or fibers.
Regardless of which industry you work in, if you suffer asbestos exposure, you could end up with a life-threatening illness at some point in the future. In the alternative, if you used to work in an industry in which this toxic mineral was prevalent, you may just recently have received a diagnosis of some form of cancer or other illness caused by it. You may believe that because the exposure took place several years (in most cases several decades) ago that you have no recourse. Fortunately, that may not be the case and it may help to explore your legal options with an Ohio attorney with experience in this area of law.
Source: osha.gov, “OSHA Fact Sheet: Asbestos”, Accessed on Feb. 25, 2018
