Asbestos in Swimming Pools
Could there really be asbestos in pools?
For the past few decades, many pools were lined with vermiculite, a mineral similar to mica that provides excellent insulation when heated and “popped.” While any vermiculite mined today is considered safe, there is some risk that vermiculite used before 1990 is contaminated by tremolite, a particularly dangerous form of asbestos. Prior to 1990, 80 percent of the world’s vermiculite came from the W.R. Grace mine in Libby, Montana. Although Grace knew for decades that the vermiculite from their mine was contaminated by naturally-occurring tremolite, they did nothing to warn their workers or the townspeople of Libby. As a result of their malfeasance, hundreds of mine workers and Libby residents have died of asbestos related diseases, including malignant mesothelioma, a rare but deadly form of cancer caused solely by asbestos exposure.
One of the most popular products made with the Grace vermiculite was Zonolite, a loose fill insulation product used in millions of homes, and possibly for pool lining projects. If you have a pool made before 1990 and are considering remodeling or replastering it, have the material tested for asbestos before undertaking the project.
Exposure to asbestos is the precursor for many serious illnesses, including asbestosis, pleural plaques, and mesothelioma. Microscopic asbestos fibers can become airborne at the slightest provocation and will remain suspended in the air for hours or days. Once inhaled the spear-like fibers can become embedded in the lungs or stomach, a condition that can develop into a asbestos related illness over the course of many decades.
Exposed to asbestos? Contact a mesothelioma attorney today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease from workplace or home exposure to asbestos, contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer immediately. Mesothelioma attorneys have helped thousands of mesothelioma patients win compensation for lost wages and medical costs.