Asbestos poisoning refers to the health hazards caused by exposure to and inhalation of asbestos particles. Asbestosis, mesothelioma cancers and some type of lung cancers are the serious health hazards caused by asbestos poisoning.
Asbestos, the contaminant responsible for asbestos poisoning is everywhere, all around us in one form or the other. Asbestos is a natural group of minerals used commonly in buildings for insulation and other purposes. It was also widely used in industrial and manufacturing processes like, shipbuilding, electrical accessories, railroads, industrial boilers, refineries, automobiles, and paper. The widespread use of asbestos fibers was mainly because of their durability, stability and fire resistant properties.
However, occupational or other exposure to asbestos fibers could result in serious health implications like asbestos poisoning, mesothelioma, lung cancer and other diseases. All these diseases are caused because of inhalation of asbestos particles. Asbestos is dangerous contaminant because it can easily break into minute particles. These particles travel to the lungs and respiratory system of the person and cause asbestos poisoning.
The workers in the aforementioned industrial processes, their family members, people occupying asbestos containing buildings and those staying in vicinity of asbestos related industries are vulnerable to asbestos poisoning and other asbestos disease. Worst part is that the asbestos particles can lie dormant in your lungs and respiratory system for 30-40 years before manifesting into mesothelioma and asbestos poisoning. This is the reason why most patients of asbestos poisoning are 50 years and above.
Owners of asbestos manufacturing processes were aware of the health hazards of asbestos and knew that it could cause asbestos poisoning and other serious diseases. However, they persisted with its use without issuing adequate warnings and or making necessary arrangements for protecting their employees against asbestos exposure. This is the main reason why many courts have awarded handsome amounts against them as compensation to patients suffering from asbestos related diseases.