Prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to a condition called asbestosis. This occurs when asbestos fibers irritate the lungs, forming scar tissue. Scarred lung tissue is stiffer and does not expand as well as healthy tissue. This makes breathing more difficult....

In the past, asbestos was a popular construction product. It is a mineral made from thin fibers, often found in insulation. Unfortunately, when damaged, the fibers become airborne and become dangerous to anyone who inhales them. After years, people can develop...

Though it has been decades since asbestos got banned as a building material, many buildings still stand that underwent construction while asbestos was still an okay product to use. On top of that, many things outside of buildings contain asbestos that you may not even...

Employees handling materials containing asbestos have a right to protection from the harmful diseases it causes. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration established standards designed to reduce workers' exposure to asbestos. Employers must follow OSHA’s...

The word "asbestos" can apply to several different minerals that have similar properties. All can cause cancer and other respiratory illnesses if inhaled. According to Asbestos.com, there are at least six different types of asbestos classified into one of two mineral...

Asbestos exposure over a prolonged period of time can have numerous ill effects on the human body and especially the lungs. Atelectasis, a breathing complication that arises from inhaling foreign objects, is just one of them. This condition may affect the entire lung...

If you developed an illness from asbestos exposure, the company that exposed you may owe damages. However, you must prove their negligence first. According to the EPA, companies must identify and show transparency when manufacturing certain asbestos products. If you...

Restrictions on the use of asbestos in building materials have helped to decrease the incidence of diseases associated with exposure. Nevertheless, older structures may still contain asbestos. This means that there is still a risk of exposure, especially for people...

Since the primary method of asbestos exposure is the inhalation of its carcinogenic fibers, exposure may happen over many years or all at once. In the event of an accident involving asbestos, it is important to quarantine the area and deal with it carefully. What...

Asbestos was once commonly used in homes. Now that the public is widely aware of the health risks associated with this mineral, the Environmental Protection Agency and other government entities regulate its use. Despite these regulations, many older houses still have...