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4 Ways To Protect Your Family From Second-Hand Asbestos Exposure

Legally Reviewed by Joseph P. Williams on May 2, 2024

Protecting your family from second-hand asbestos exposure is essential due to its serious health risks. Second-hand exposure occurs when individuals unknowingly bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing or skin, putting their loved ones at risk. Second-hand exposure can also happen during home improvement projects. Asbestos exposure can lead to life-altering health conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, often manifesting decades after initial exposure. Understanding how to mitigate these risks by disposing of contaminated clothes and identifying sources of asbestos is crucial for safeguarding your family’s health.

If you or someone you love has been exposed to asbestos and later developed a serious condition like mesothelioma, an experienced attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to helping you pursue justice for the losses you have endured. Our renowned founder, Joe Williams, has never lost a mesothelioma case and will work tirelessly for a favorable outcome on your behalf. When you choose our firm, you can trust us to do everything in our power to fight for your rights and interests.

Protecting Your Family From Asbestos Exposure

Many individuals are exposed to asbestos through their careers or by disturbing fibers in their homes. A few occupations at risk for asbestos exposure include construction workers, firefighters, and industrial workers. If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, you can protect your family from deadly second-hand exposure by taking the following precautions:

Dispose of Contaminated Clothing

Asbestos fibers do not easily wash out of clothing. This means your clothing may still carry fibers, even after several washes. To make matters worse, your clothes may also contaminate your family’s clothing as they tumble together in the washer or dryer. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is critical to dispose of the clothes you wore safely. Be sure to place the clothes in a watertight bag and dispose of them at an EPA-approved asbestos landfill

Avoid Using Furniture After Being Exposed

Because asbestos fibers are known to linger on fabrics, it is also important to avoid using any furniture in your home after being exposed and before disposing of your clothes and showering. Asbestos fibers on chairs, couches, or beds can be easily inhaled by your family members, causing second-hand exposure. 

Avoid Personal Contact Before Decontamination

In addition to becoming embedded in your clothes, asbestos fibers can also travel home on your skin and in your hair. This makes taking a thorough shower essential before having any physical contact with your family, even if you already disposed of your clothes. According to OSHA guidelines, companies that perform asbestos abatement must have a shower on site for employees to use. 

Learn How to Identify Asbestos in Your Home

Another common way families are exposed to asbestos is through home improvement projects. While asbestos is invisible to the naked eye, it can become airborne when exposed, making it easy for you or your family to inhale. Asbestos is present in many homes built before 1980, and may lurk in pain, flooring, insulation, and roofing materials. Before undertaking a home project, have your home evaluated by a professional to decrease the risk of exposure. 

Discuss Your Case With a First-Class Asbestos Exposure Attorney at The Williams Law Firm, P.C.

At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we specialize in addressing the complexities of second-hand asbestos exposure cases. Our lead attorney, Joe Williams, along with our dedicated team, deeply understands the nuances of these cases and is committed to fighting for your cause. We approach each case with personalized attention and will prioritize your needs throughout the legal process. We understand that a mesothelioma claim is the most serious case you could have and will treat you with the respect and care you deserve as we advocate for you. 

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