Asbestos was widely used for decades before the risks were known. Today, we know the dangers of breathing in asbestos fibers, but some parties continue to engage in negligent or reckless actions that put individuals at risk.
What do these bad acts look like?
The unfortunate fact is that people fail to notify or protect others from asbestos, even when they know it is a concern. Some ways they might do this include:
- Failing to provide workers with protective gear during high-risk jobs
- Lying about asbestos testing or results
- Failing to erect protective barriers around spaces under construction
- Misleading workers on their rights to a safe work environment
- Using products they know to be contaminated with asbestos
- Improperly disposing of asbestos-containing materials
Often, parties make these decisions to save money or cut corners. Properly abating asbestos can take time, money and hiring professionals. But too often, reckless parties believe the ends justify the means, which can put innocent people in serious danger.
What can I do if I have been exposed to asbestos?
If you believe your employer, landlord or other party engaged in these activities that put you in danger, seeing a doctor right away is crucial. Notify them that you may have suffered exposure to asbestos so that they can make a note in your medical history and request appropriate testing.
Further, it can be wise to try and collect evidence of wrongdoing. Consider tracking down and retaining:
- Emails with false or misleading information about asbestos
- Records of unsafe workspace safety practices
- Complaints from witnesses and other victims
- Photos of asbestos-containing products
- Details of any protective measures overlooked
This information can prove crucial in the event that you suffer an adverse medical event connected to asbestos exposure.
Keeping these records in a safe place can also be wise, as you may need them years down the line.
There are concrete measures and rules in place to protect people from asbestos exposure. When parties do not comply with them, they put people in danger and can be held accountable for their misconduct.