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Found in metamorphic rocks in the western United States, asbestos is a versatile yet deadly naturally occurring material. It has led to millions of asbestos compensation claims after the material has been linked to various chronic diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis and pleural plaques.
Asbestos is the generic name given to a group of minerals that consist of fibrous bundles. Serpentine, an olive green mineral found typically in California, contains the typically long and thin asbestos fibres. It was made the State of California's designated rock in 1965 to commemorate the large amount of asbestos mining that took place there in the 1900s.
In 2010, lobbyists worked to remove the rock from its status to raise awareness of diseases linked to asbestos.
Legislation supporting the removal of the rock's association with the state said that, "California should not designate a rock known to be toxic to the health of its residents."
However, geologists protested the move arguing that the rock is harmless as the asbestos is contained inside the rock and will not cause harm unless disturbed.
The mineral is no longer mined in the US and it is now rarely used in construction due to the health risk it poses. Blue and brown asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1985 and white asbestos since 1999. The importation, supply and use of the material in any form are not allowed and second hand goods containing the material cannot be resold.
Many buildings across the UK still contain asbestos, yet are unlikely to be causing occupants any harm. It is only when the material is disturbed and the fibres broken up that the deadly fibres can be inhaled into the lungs where they can cause several life-threatening diseases.
Victims of asbestos-related diseases will typically (although not exclusively), have worked in the construction industry and will have been exposed to the deadly fibres while at work.
Employers have a duty to ensure the health and wellbeing of their employees. This means ensuring that safety masks and protective clothing are worn at all times when workers may be exposed to harmful substances and adequate training is given to ensure the safe handling of hazardous items.
If you are suffering from a disease caused by asbestos exposure, you could be eligible for making an asbestos compensation claim.
Make an asbestos compensation claim today
At YouClaim, our team of personal injury lawyers have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you make a successful claim for personal injury compensation.
Thanks to our no win, no fee policy, you will not be charged a single penny for your claim regardless of the outcome of your case.
To find out more about making an asbestos compensation claim, why not give us a call today and get one step closer to claiming appropriate damages for your work-related ill-health.
