Asbestos in Laboratory Apparatus
Asbestos was once used extensively in laboratory apparatus because of its high resistance to heat and its fireproofing and non-conductivity properties. There were once numerous items containing asbestos used in laboratory settings, all of which posed a risk to those exposed to any airborne fibers. Exposure to asbestos has been shown to cause numerous serious illnesses, including asbestosis, asbestos lung cancer, and mesothelioma cancer.
Anyone who worked in a laboratory setting prior the early 1980s may have been exposed to asbestos and may be at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. Those exposed included scientists, researchers, engineers, laboratory assistants, laboratory workers, and even students. Stephen Jay Gould is perhaps the most famous scientist to have been diagnosed with mesothelioma (Gould was also one of the longest surviving victims of mesothelioma. He passed away in 2002 after fighting the disease for nearly 20 years.)
Laboratory equipment known to contain asbestos prior to the 1980s (approximate) includes:
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- Mineral sets
- Laboratory and electrical ovens
- Electric biological insulators
- Incubator ovens
- Electric heaters
- Asbestos fire blankets
- Crucibles
- Beaker tongs (to line handles)
- Fluorescent viewers
- Adapters
- Asbestos paper
There is evidence that many of the companies involved in the manufacture of asbestos-containing products knew as early as the 1930s that the material was a human carcinogen, but did nothing to protect the health and safety of those making or using the products.
Because of this evidence, mesothelioma attorneys have been able to get justice for asbestos victims, and help they win compensation for their injuries. If you or a loved one has been harmed by asbestos in laboratory equipment, you have rights under asbestos law. An experienced mesothelioma attorney may be able to get you or your loved one the compensation they need and deserve.