Working in an industrial setting has its challenges and hazards. Beyond some obvious workplace safety concerns, hidden dangers often exist beneath the surface. Asbestos, a natural yet toxic mineral, is one of these hidden dangers. Taking the proper safety precautions with asbestos can drastically affect your risk of developing an incurable disease.
Thousands of commercial and consumer products contained asbestos because it was used for insulating and heat-resistant purposes. It is likely to be present in factories, manufacturing plants and industrial facilities build prior to the 1980s. This widespread use doesn’t diminish its danger, even though it may seem commonplace.
Consequences for Lack of SafetyIf asbestos safety at work is not made a priority, there can be numerous consequences. Exposure to asbestos can cause multiple diseases, cancers and health conditions such as a mesothelioma prognosis, lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural plaques. Most of these conditions have limited treatment options and no cure.
Family members may also be endangered through secondary asbestos exposure if the proper safety precautions aren’t taken. Secondary exposure occurs when toxic asbestos fibers travel from the worksite into a worker’s place of residence, inadvertently exposing family members to the toxic fibers.This happens when fibers become stuck to the clothing or equipment of an employee. Wives can be exposed when doing laundry for contaminated clothing and simply hugging a loved one who is wearing asbestos-laced clothing can expose children.
Simple Safety PrecautionsThere are many safety precautions you can take to minimize asbestos exposure on the job. First, you can inquire and investigate whether your workplace or facility has been tested for asbestos. Records may reveal if asbestos has been used in any buildings, equipment or products within your work environment.
Next, wearing the right equipment can be extremely important. Asbestos fibers become dangerous when they are inhaled. By wearing protective masks to minimize breathing in toxic materials, you can drastically cut your risks. Furthermore, washing equipment and supplies before leaving work can further protect a worker and their family.
A final safety precaution if asbestos exposure is a concern at work is regular health screenings and respiratory examinations. Many asbestos-related diseases don’t manifest until decades after initial exposure. However, early X-rays and other diagnostic tools may allow doctors to catch it early.
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