Asbestos Thermal Products

Due to its inherent ability to withstand high amounts of heat, friction, chemicals and electrical currents, asbestos has been used in thousands of applications, ranging from building materials to fireproof gear. However, because long-term asbestos exposure can cause a number of severe health issues, anything that contains asbestos – including asbestos thermal products – must, by law, carry a warning label identifying known asbestos risks.

Despite these asbestos warning labels, however, some people will still develop life-threatening asbestos-related conditions, such as lung or mesothelioma cancer.

Types of Thermal Products that Contain Asbestos

Durable, versatile asbestos thermal products can include: · fireproof clothes, blankets and gear · gas masks

• insulation, including cement, pipe and wall insulation
• thermal paper supplies
• thermal sealants, coatings and sprays

Because many of these asbestos thermal products are used regularly and frequently, they will naturally breakdown, releasing toxic asbestos fibers into the air. Keep in mind that, while intact asbestos is not particularly hazardous, disturbed asbestos fibers, especially those that stay suspended in the air for days, are extremely carcinogenic (cancer causing).

Unfortunately, asbestos exposure through thermal products affects not only those who use the thermal products but also those who manufacture them. In fact, factory workers who made asbestos thermal products and related asbestos textiles before 1980 are among those with the highest risk of developing asbestos diseases due to the lack of safety regulations in place prior to this decade.

Today, despite the fact that asbestos regulations are in place, factory workers who make asbestos thermal products can still have a higher risk than the general public of developing asbestos diseases, particularly if employers are negligent or non-compliant with asbestos safety regulations.

Where Asbestos Thermal Products Are Found

Many of us come into contact with asbestos thermal products on a daily basis in our homes, at work or during our leisure time. Some of the most common places that asbestos thermal products can be found include:

• in bricks or wall coverings (such as stucco)
• in heating and plumbing devices
• in kilns, furnaces or industrial boilers
• in parts of small appliances
• in walls and floors
• on roofs (Both roofing tar and shingles can contain asbestos)

To minimize asbestos exposure, people are advised to:

• properly ventilate areas containing asbestos
• replace asbestos, when possible, with suitable substitute materials
• wash their hands and change their clothing after coming into contact with asbestos fibers
• wear face masks around disturbed asbestos

Products That Contain Asbestos

Products that contain asbestos are all around us. In the United States, the peak years for the manufacture of products with asbestos were from about 1940 to 1975. In the 1960s, the toxicity of asbestos as a material finally became acknowledged, but it wasn’t until 1970 that federal laws started to limit the many uses of products containing asbestos.

List of Asbestos-Containing Materials

So what contains asbestos, and what kind of materials or products should one look out for? Unfortunately, its use was so widespread that there are many different kinds of products that contain asbestos in many different categories. Because of the fire- and heat-resistant properties of asbestos, it was used in many building products as a fire-retardant insulator in plumbing, electrical, and structural applications. This means that asbestos still has a significant presence in our lives. The use was so widespread that entire list of products that contain asbestos is bound to be incomplete. Below is a partial list of products that most likely contain the cancer-causing substance.

Building exteriors

• Stucco
• Building overhangs (thermal spray)
• Brick and block mortar
• Asbestos cement siding and roof panels

Building products

• Sprayed insulation (fire-resistant, acoustic, condensation control, thermal)
• Insulating cements
• Insulation block (calcium or magnesia silicate)
• Textiles

Flooring

• Sheet vinyl flooring (asbestos paper backing)
• Vinyl asbestos tile
• Floor leveling compound

Walls

• Stippled finishes
• Thermal spray
• Plaster or drywall jointing materials

Pipes

• Steam and hot water heating supply and return lines
• Gaskets in flanged pipe joints
• Domestic water supply and drain lines
• Rain water and sanitary lines

Ceilings

• Acoustic and stippled finishes
• T-bar ceiling tiles
• Asbestos cement ceiling tiles
• Plaster or drywall jointing materials

Service Areas

• Crawl spaces (insulation on pipes, ducts)
• Machine rooms (insulation on pipes, ducts, floors, ceilings, walls)
• Insulation in boiler rooms (pipes, ducts, boilers, vessels, incinerators, floors, ceilings, walls)
• Fan rooms (insulation of pipes, ducts, chillers, floors, ceilings, walls)

Textiles

• Fireproof blankets
• Fireproof clothing
• Stage curtains
• Packing cloth
• Welding blankets and screens

Car Parts

• Brake pads and braking systems
• Gaskets
• Transmission parts

Miscellaneous

• Early cigarette filters
• Early duct tape
• Incandescent light fixture backing
• Incinerators (internal insulation)/li>
• Wire insulation
• Heating cabinet panels (asbestos cement)
• Fire dampers and fire-stop flaps
• Emergency generators (thermal insulation and exhaust manifolds)
• Elevator brake shoes

This is a very basic list of what contains asbestos and where it may be commonly found. Due to its popularity, the substance may be present in even more materials.

Asbestos can be sprayed as a mist to make a friction-resistant and fire-resistant coating. It can be woven and spun into textiles. And it can be made into sheets. Its versatility and strength made it seem like a “miracle material.” Unfortunately, the many good properties of asbestos don’t outweigh its damaging property: It has been proven to cause cancer in humans and animals.

Asbestos and Cancer Risks

Many commonly used products still contain asbestos, and the carcinogenic (cancer-causing) properties of asbestos in these products have caused an epidemic of diseases including a very severe form of abdominal and lung cancer, mesothelioma. If you work in certain industries, you’ve most likely been exposed. If you’ve gotten sick due to your exposure, it may be time to contact a lawyer; you have certain legal rights that must be held up through litigation.

Contact Us To Learn More About Asbestos Cancer

If you would like to learn more about the resources available to victims of cancer as a result of asbestos exposure, contact Mesothelioma Treatment Centers today. An attorney can speak with you about your treatment and legal options.

Asbestos Attorneys in Arizona

Asbestos Attorneys in Arizona

Our asbestos attorneys have extensive experience helping individuals and families throughout the state of Arizona seek and recover financial compensation for claims involving mesothelioma and other asbestos cancers. We work with the top attorneys in the nation to ensure our clients get the full amount of compensation owed to them by law.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, contact us for help. We will help you connect with a top legal professional and will also help you connect with the top mesothelioma specialists in the area to ensure you get the highest quality care.

History of Asbestos in Arizona: Asbestos Mines

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was first discovered in Arizona in 1872 in the town Chrysotile. Properties such as high tensile strength and resistance to heat and fire made asbestos immediately attractive to several industries.

Once asbestos was discovered in hundreds of sites across the state, the mining industry and production companies rapidly took over. Indian reservations across the state banked on the naturally occurring asbestos and quickly began distributing it to local and national businesses.

It wasn’t until the early 1980s that most of the mining districts in Arizona were shut down due to the dangers of asbestos exposure. So, from the time asbestos was first discovered to the time the mines were shut down, hundreds of Arizona workers and residents were exposed to the dangerous mineral.

Occupational Exposure in Arizona

Of course miners who removed raw asbestos from the ground were at the highest risk for inhaling dangerous fibers, but the mines scattered across the state weren’t the only source of asbestos exposure. In fact, industry workers were exposed to the dangers of asbestos almost daily, particularly those who worked for:

• Steel mills
• Copper mills
• Power plants
• Construction sites

Mesothelioma Lawyer Arizona

At Mesothelioma Treatment Centers, it is our mission to help persons and families affected by asbestos achieve the highest quality medical care. One of the ways we are able to do this is by connecting affected persons to the top mesothelioma lawyers in the state who are focused on obtaining significant financial recoveries for their clients.

While a financial recovery cannot reverse the damage that has been done, it can help our clients pay for expensive therapies and treatments necessary to achieve the highest quality of life.

If you or a loved one has a history of working or living nearby an asbestos mine, you may be eligible for compensation. We may also be able to help you if you worked with asbestos products in any type of industry. To learn more and to find out of you qualify for a financial recovery, contact us today.

Asbestos Attorneys in Pennsylvania

Asbestos Attorneys in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is referred to as a “rust belt” state because of its history of asbestos mining and manufacturing. Pennsylvania, home to two major asbestos industrial hubs in Philadelphia and Pittsburg, is most commonly known for its steel production, hence the name of its football team, the Pittsburgh “Steelers.”

In addition to its booming steel industry, Pennsylvania also thrives on other major industries including the shipbuilding, oil and power industries. Many of Pennsylvania’s power plants are still operating today, and have been so since the Industrial Revolution.

Industry and Asbestos Exposure

Pennsylvania’s thriving industries have been the culprit of serious toxic asbestos exposure; thus, the industries that have helped this city thrive have also led to the death of thousands of its own residents and workers.

Asbestos was widely used in the shipbuilding, oil, power and steel industries up until studies proved it was toxic if breathed in and ingested. Unfortunately, however, once its effects were discovered, it was too late for many workers who had already been exposed to the dangerous asbestos fibers. Even worse, some companies failed to listen to the warnings and continued to expose workers to the dangers of asbestos for months and even years after learning about its harmful effects.

Pennsylvania Asbestos Mines

Pennsylvania is one of the few states home to asbestos mines, which has also attributed to many asbestos cancer deaths. Those who worked in the mines and their family members were most likely exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos. The toxic fibers were often carried home in workers clothes, exposing family members to the harmful effects.

Mesothelioma Attorney Pennsylvania

Because symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos illnesses can take up to 50 years to develop, many individuals who worked and lived in Pennsylvania when asbestos-use was at its peak are just now experiencing the effects. Our mesothelioma attorneys are familiar with the history of asbestos use in the state and are helping individuals and families recoup damages from the companies responsible for their exposure.

Compensation may include:

• Past, present and future medical bills
• Lost ability to work or engage in social activities
• Decreased quality of life
• Loss of economic support in cases of death
• Funeral and burial costs

Our lawyers also assist individuals in seeking quality medical care and can help you get the care you need. While there currently isn’t a cure for mesothelioma, there are several treatment options available to help ease the pain and increase patients’ quality of life. While advocating for your rights, we will also make sure you receive the best care possible.

Contact a Pennsylvania Asbestos Attorney

If you or someone you love has been exposed to asbestos and has been diagnosed with asbestosis, mesothelioma cancer or another fatal disease, one of the most important things you can do is contact a Pennsylvania asbestos attorney who will assist you and your family in recovering compensation for medical bills, long term treatment programs, lost wages and emotional pain and suffering. To schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney, please contact us today.

Mesothelioma Lawyer

Mesothelioma Litigation and Lawyers

A mesothelioma diagnosis can be a devastating experience for an entire family. Learning to cope with the challenges ahead means not only dealing with the disease, but also preparing for the possibility that the disease resulted from exposure to asbestos. Litigation has been happening across the country regarding mesothelioma, so first, know this: You’re not alone.

Our mesothelioma lawyers can help you navigate this process. Mesothelioma litigation is a highly complex and specialized area of law that requires guidance from an experienced attorney. Our lawyers specialize in asbestos laws and are familiar with the history behind exposure, the ways in which someone may be exposed, and which companies may be responsible. We serve as advocates for patients and their families.

Getting Answers About Your Mesothelioma

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important that you work with an attorney who not only understands the laws but also has access to the resources you need, such as quality medical care. Mesothelioma lawyers can help you navigate the maze of medical bills and insurance forms while you are awaiting a settlement or award and can help you find answers to questions such as:

• How will I continue to support my family?
• Who is responsible for my illness?
• How will I ever afford these costly medical bills?
• Will I ever work again?
• How can I meet my other financial responsibilities, such as paying my mortgage?
• Will I be able to afford in-home care?
• What will happen to my family after I am gone?

This is an emotional time, and we believe that you and your loved ones should spend as much time together as possible. Let us focus on the medical bills and other financial responsibilities while you focus on getting care for your cancer.

Is Asbestos Litigation Really an Option?

Yes. You should contact a mesothelioma law firm if you or someone you love is diagnosed. In most cases, people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos decades ago, most often in the workplace. Our mesothelioma attorneys will work with you to determine when and where you were exposed and will make sure that you are compensated for your suffering.

Our mesothelioma attorneys represent individuals from all walks of life. We represent Army, Air Force, Marine, Navy, and Coast Guard veterans and their family members who develop mesothelioma years after service. We also represent workers such as electricians, construction workers, boilermakers, sheet metal workers, mechanics, and others who were exposed to high levels of asbestos while on the job.

We have brought claims against large companies and are not afraid to stand up to any corporation, no matter the size. It is believed that companies knew of the dangers of asbestos as far back as the 1930s but failed to protect the millions of workers and individuals who were being exposed in order to protect their bottom lines. As a result, countless people have suffered.

How to Prepare for a Consultation

When you are planning to meet with a knowledgeable asbestos lawyer for the first time, it is important to be prepared with notes about your case, such as:

• When you were diagnosed
• What symptoms you are dealing with
• List of medical procedures/treatments you have received
• History of asbestos exposure
• If you are a veteran, when did you serve, and were you exposed to asbestos during service?
• If you believe your asbestos exposure is occupational, list where you worked and what dates.

If you are unsure about how you were exposed, make a list of where you worked, lived, and enjoyed social activities. A skilled asbestos lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation and will work with top experts to determine how and when you were exposed. The source of exposure will be important to determining who is liable; sometimes, there may be more than one person/company that can be named as defendants in your case.

After evaluating the facts, your lawyer will discuss your options and will help you make the right decision on what is best for you and your family.

Contact a Mesothelioma Law Firm for Help

Individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and the surviving spouses and dependents of those who have died from the deadly cancer have access to a range of legal options depending upon the circumstances of their case. Our mesothelioma lawyers have an in-depth understanding of the legal issues surrounding asbestos exposure as well as the unique challenges our affected clients face. We provide our clients with detailed information about their legal options and the other resources available as they learn to cope with the challenges ahead.

Legal Options

Individuals that have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and the surviving spouses and dependents of those who have died from the deadly cancer have a range of legal options, depending upon the circumstances of their case. Our asbestos lawyers have an in depth understanding of the legal issues surrounding asbestos exposure as well as the unique challenges our affected clients face. We provide our clients with detailed information about their legal options and other resources available as they learn to cope with the challenges ahead.

Knowing Your Legal Options

Asbestos litigation is a highly complex and specialized area of law that requires guidance from an attorney who is familiar with asbestos laws as well as the history behind exposure, the ways in which someone may be exposed and which companies may be responsible. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important that you work an attorney who not only understands the laws, but also who has access to the resources you need such as quality medical care and support groups.

Our asbestos lawyers can help you navigate the maze of medical bills, insurance forms and other aspects of a mesothelioma diagnosis while you are awaiting a settlement or award and can help you find answers to questions such as:

• How will I continue to support my family?
• How will I ever afford these medical bills?
• Will I ever work again?
• Will I lose my home?
• How can I possibly meet my financial responsibilities such as paying my mortgage?
• Who is responsible for my illness?
• Who will take care of my family when I am gone?

Dealing with the illness is overwhelming enough as it is. We don’t want you to have to go through a long, intense and stressful legal battle with questions of how you are going to move forward. We will serve as your advocates throughout the entire legal process and beyond and will make sure that you have peace of mind that you and your family will be well taken care of. We will educate you on your options and make sure that you make well informed decisions on how you should proceed.

Putting Your Interests First

Because there are so many legal options available to you, it is important to work with an attorney who will fight for your best interests and do whatever it takes to get you a maximum financial recovery rather than settling for less than what you deserve. But, how will you know you are choosing the right lawyer? When you choose a lawyer, you should go with your gut. You are going to be working closely with your attorney, so you will want to make sure it is someone you feel comfortable with. You should also do your homework and ask a lot of questions. Make sure that your lawyer has a proven record of success and has a clear legal strategy laid out for you.

How to Prepare for a Consultation

When you are planning to meet with an asbestos lawyer for the first time, it is important to be prepared so you don’t waste your time or his/hers. You should be prepared with notes about your case, such as:

• When you were diagnosed
• What symptoms you are dealing with
• List of medical procedures/treatments you have received
• History of asbestos exposure
• If you are a veteran, when did you serve and were you exposed to asbestos during service?
• If you believe your asbestos exposure is occupational, list where you worked and what dates

If you are unsure how you were diagnosed, make a list of where you worked, lived and enjoyed social activities. A skilled asbestos lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation and will work with top experts to determine how and when you were exposed. The source of exposure will be important to determining who is liable — sometimes there may be more than one person/company that can be named as defendants in your case.

The facts of your case are important and will determine what legal route you should take. After evaluating the facts, your lawyer will discuss your options and will help you make the right decision on what is best for you and your family. To learn more about your legal options as well the other resources available to you and your family, contact us today.

Mesothelioma in Veterans

In recent years, tens of thousands of former Army, Air Force, Marine, Navy, and Coast Guard personnel and their spouses have begun to develop mesothelioma. Decades after their military service in World War II, Korea, and other conflicts, these veterans are getting hit with the devastating news that their service to their country is the source of their cancer. The association between veterans and mesothelioma cancer is especially strong among men who served in the Navy during World War II.

Mesothelioma Develops Years after Asbestos Exposure

Essentially every case of mesothelioma (whether in a veteran or civilian) is due to the individual’s exposure to asbestos, a carcinogen that was once very widely used in building materials, Navy ships, and thousands of other products. After asbestos fibers are inhaled, the lungs or other internal organs can eventually develop mesothelioma cancer cells.

The symptoms of mesothelioma take from 10 to 50 years to develop, but the mesothelioma–asbestos link can be identified and confirmed even when the patient hasn’t had any contact with asbestos for decades. The increasing numbers of veterans with mesothelioma diagnoses continue to confirm the causal link between asbestos and mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma Cancer

Some soldiers, sailors, Marines and other veterans with mesothelioma are already being treated. Other veterans are experiencing the first symptoms and signs of mesothelioma but are not yet aware that cancer is causing the symptoms. If you’re a veteran and you’re experiencing mesothelioma symptoms such as chest or abdominal pain and shortness of breath or wheezing, get examined immediately by a physician.

Asbestos Exposure in Veterans

The veterans (and civilian contractors) who worked with asbestos in years past include:

• Insulation installers
• Boiler room workers and others who worked below deck
• Shipyard workers
• Construction workers
• Machinery repairmen
• Machinists’ mates

Other individuals at risk for mesothelioma are those who worked with asbestos-containing products such as:

• Adhesives
• Brake pads and clutches
• Cables
• Gaskets
• Insulation
• Plumbing

The spouses of these workers were often exposed to toxic levels of asbestos when the workers came home wearing their work clothes — which were full of asbestos fibers, ready to be laundered time after time.

Navy & Asbestos Exposure Sources

• Asbestos Exposure in Battleships
• Asbestos Exposure in Aircraft Carriers
• Asbestos Exposure in Submarines
• Asbestos Exposure in Navy Ships

A Workplace Asbestos Link Is Not Required

Mesothelioma does not require an intensive workplace filled with asbestos; veterans who have developed mesothelioma may have been exposed to asbestos cancer during the time they spent in sleeping quarters, mess halls, and navigation rooms that had asbestos components. Many shipyards were also full of asbestos, especially during the 1930s and 1940s.

Do You Know a Veteran with Mesothelioma?

If you would like to learn more about medical, financial, and other mesothelioma resources available to you or your loved one, contact mesothelioma treatment centers today.