Asbestos Use and Mesothelioma

It has now been established beyond a doubt that exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer. Taking adequate precautions and using alternative materials is the best bet to safeguard against the risk of contracting this fatal disease.

Here are some important fact:
• Asbestos exposure affects nearly 1.3 million employees in the construction and general industry.
• These workers are at a considerable risk of getting mesothelioma, a lethal form of cancer that attacks the lining of the lungs, stomach, and internal organs.

Is the government taking a proactive stance? Yes. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has addressed asbestos hazards by specifying the standards for the general industry and shipyards.

What other actions are being taken? The challenge for industry leaders and the government is daunting. The applications of asbestos are legion. Fire protection, heat insulation, ceiling tiles, building boards and automotive components are some common areas of asbestos usage.

In fact, there already is a determined action by the industry to use alternative materials in some applications. These include:
• Floor tiles • Gaskets and seals • Vehicle clutch plates • Insulation in cookers • Packing products • Cement sheeting for roofs and walls.

There can be no substitute when it comes to safeguarding the health of the nation. By eliminating the use of asbestos and asbestos-based products, the risk of mesothelioma can be drastically reduced.