Asbestos Fiber Felt
Fiber Felt
Asbestos fiber felt is a material that was once widely used in the construction industry with residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This material reached popularity because it is lightweight, inexpensive, fire-resistant and an effective insulator. Individuals working in shipyards, aboard naval vessels and HVAC workers also used asbestos fiber felt.
The presence of new asbestos-laden materials eventually disappeared by the 1980s, and the production of materials containing asbestos was eventually outlawed in 1997. However, some products containing asbestos still exist today.
The Harmful Nature of Asbestos Fiber Felt
The asbestos contained within fiber felt manufactured prior to the 1980s can be extremely harmful. While asbestos is a naturally occurring substance, it can cause tremendous damage when inhaled or swallowed. It can lead to shortness of breath, chest pains, abdominal swelling, and pleural effusion.
The most common and deadly effect of prolonged and continual asbestos exposure is a lethal type of cancer called mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is one of the most subtle forms of cancer. It can lie dormant in one's body for one, two, or even three decades before any noticeable symptoms manifest. As a result, this disease often goes untreated for years because some sufferers and even physicians mistake its symptoms for influenza or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be very difficult to treat once it has reached advanced stages.
Why Was Nothing Done About Asbestos Until the 1980s?
Unfortunately, major industries have known about the harmful nature of asbestos and asbestos fiber felt since the 1930s. However, it seems the desire for financial gain clouded their better judgment and nothing was done about it. Workers were neither told about the harmful effects of asbestos exposure nor were they given adequate safety equipment to help them avoid exposure. As a result, many workers inhaled or swallowed asbestos for long periods of time every day that they were on the job. Family members of many of these workers were also exposed to the deadly substance as asbestos dust and fibers easily traveled home with the workers via their clothing.
What to Do If You've Been Exposed to Asbestos Fiber Felt
If you suspect you've been exposed to asbestos fiber felt, then you should first go to your physician and get tested for mesothelioma. Once you've secured adequate treatment, then you should consult your attorney to see if you are due any compensation. If your former or current employer failed to provide adequate safety equipment or institute safety measures on your behalf, then you may be able to receive compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
- National Cancer Institute. Cancer Questions and Answers Updated 1 February 2007;
Accessed: 21 March 2008. - American Cancer Society. Detailed Guide: Malignant Mesothelioma Updated 19 October 2006;
Accessed: 21 March 2008.
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