Even though asbehttp://stos may no longer be in most new consumer products, it remains present in many older consumer products. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral made of flexible and soft fibers that are heat and corrosion resistant, was used years ago in many consumer products without regard to its potential danger. Most people know about the high chances of asbestos existing in older buildings, especially in floor tiles and ceiling materials. However, many people may not know that several common household products they think are safe could contain asbestos. Because of this, many individuals may not know that they or their loved ones can fall victim to asbestos exposure at home.

When asbestos-containing products are disturbed, tiny asbestos fibers are released into the air. If an individual breathes in asbestos fibers, the fibers may get stuck in the person's lungs and remain there for a long time. The breathed-in asbestos fibers can, in the end, cause inflammation and scarring, which can, later on, cause mesothelioma, a type of asbestos cancer that develops in the tissue that lines the chest cavity, lungs, and abdomen.

Most heavy asbestos exposures happened in the past, particularly before the 1980s. Nonetheless, even today, asbestos exposure continues to occur. Today, heavy exposures tend to happen in ship repair, especially during renovation and the construction industry. People who own or come into contact with asbestos-containing household products are also at risk of asbestos exposure. Even though most heavy exposures do not occur at home, it is a well-known fact that there is no safe level of asbestos exposure.

Therefore, it is crucial for people to know which household items could contain asbestos so they can make informed decisions about handling them. Some of the products to watch out for include:

Hair dryers

Until 1980, most hair dryers contained the toxic substance known as asbestos. Even though these now vintage hair dryers are no longer commonly used, those who still use asbestos-containing vintage hair dryers are at risk of asbestos exposure. It is risky to use an asbestos-containing hair dryer because such a hair dryer blows asbestos directly into a user's airways.

Toasters

Asbestos was used on toasters in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s to provide heat insulation and electrical insulation around toasters' cords. Because of this, people need to be careful when dealing with retro-style toasters. Antique collectors need to be extremely mindful. 

Toys

Discovering that toys contain asbestos is disturbing. Tests commissioned by EWG Action Fund found deadly asbestos fibers in some brands of children's crayons and toy crime scene fingerprint kits. Unfortunately, children exposed to asbestos are 3.5 times more likely than people over 25 years to develop mesothelioma. Therefore, parents and caregivers should remain vigilant because asbestos may be lurking where they least expected to find it – their children's toys.

Arizona Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our officehttp://https://www.arizonamesotheliomaattorney.com/contact-us.html to speak to one of our experienced mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.