Each year, some Pennsylvanians realize that they’ve been unknowingly exposed to dangerous chemicals or substances. If you get a notice from your place of work or residence that you’ve been exposed to chrysotile asbestos, it can be daunting to think about the implications.
What exactly is chrysotile asbestos, and how can you be exposed to it? Here’s what you need to know about the substance and the harmful effects on your body.
Understanding chrysotile asbestos
Chrysotile asbestos is the most commonly used form of asbestos in commercial buildings, primarily because it is cheap and does a good job of providing insulation. The construction industry now knows that asbestos is dangerous, but it’s still in buildings across the United States. Asbestos can be found in:
- Home insulation
- Floor tiles
- Ceiling tiles
- Car breaks
- Industrial-grade clothing
What are the effects of chrysotile asbestos?
Research in the last decade has linked the use of chrysotile asbestos in the home and commercial areas to mesothelioma cases. As such, it’s generally believed that long-term exposure to chrysotile asbestos puts you at risk for developing mesothelioma or other diseases such as lung and ovary cancer.
What are your rights you’ve been exposed?
The Environmental Protection Agency has made great strides in putting regulations in place to protect the public and workers from chrysotile asbestos and other forms of asbestos. Schools, workplaces and other properties are required to undergo inspection for asbestos, and property owners must inform anyone who might have been exposed.
Employers are mandated to remove asbestos from their properties and inform their workers if there’s any chance that they may have been exposed. Failure to do so could result in hefty fines or even shutdown of the business.
Reach out to a lawyer today
If you think that you’ve been exposed to asbestos or believe your illness is due to chrysotile asbestos exposure, reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer may be able to examine your case and talk you through the process of getting reimbursement for your medical expenses and other damages.