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Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, it is made up of flexible fibers, which is useful in many industries. Asbestos fibers are resistant to heat, corrosion, and electricity. These components allow the mineral to be used in many different ways, but as useful as it may be, it can also be very toxic.
Asbestos works very effectively as an insulator. For this reason, it has been used in a variety of materials, including cloth, paper, cement, plastic. The problem with this is that when asbestos dust is inhaled, ingested, or otherwise enters the body, it can become permanently trapped there, leading to health complications
Older homes may contain asbestos. At one time, the mineral was very popular in the development of new structures. It was considered to be a great insulating agent that provided an extra layer of safety because of its heat and fire-resistant properties. Homes built prior to the 1980s are likely to have asbestos. Common locations for asbestos in older homes may include:
Asbestos has a long history of use in municipal water, wastewater, and stormwater systems. Additionally, many older homes still have pipes that contain asbestos. Over time, water pipes degrade, allowing more contaminants into water supplies. What many people may not know is that most water supplies in the United States contain small amounts of asbestos, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The common belief is that the levels are too low to be dangerous; however, the presence of toxins in drinking water is concerning and could lead to health complications.
Asbestos can be very dangerous due to its toxic components. This is why large-scale use in commercial and residential construction has been phased out over the last several decades. It is important to remember, however, that asbestos is still used in smaller amounts in many products.
Asbestos has been linked to mesothelioma. Since the toxic elements can remain in the body for years without detection, the cancer and its symptoms may not appear until well after exposure. This means dangers can be long-term and severe.
Health issues arising from asbestos contamination can be very difficult and costly to treat. It is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. It is also best to seek out a knowledgeable lawyer who understands the legal side and how to get a patient compensation for asbestos exposure.
If you believe your water source has been contaminated by asbestos, do not hesitate to speak with one of our Delaware asbestos lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 302-656-5445. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.