Ceramic Tiles
Ceramics are non-metallic, clay based products that are intended to endure for decades. Products like tiles were made out of this clay, and when it was mixed with other materials such as asbestos, they would be very tough and built to last. Aside from their inherent strength, these tiles were also able to tolerate intense heat and could even help repel fire. These qualities made the ceramic tiles exceptional for use on roofs, floors and walls of homes, offices and other structures.
The asbestos that was included in Ceramic Tiles was an important component until the 1970's. It would most likely still be in use today, except for momentous hitch - mesothelioma research discovered that it is extremely toxic and one of the primary causes of mesothelioma. Although it was not known for years, asbestos exposure is linked to Mesothelioma (including peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma), a form of cancer with a typically poor prognosis and corresponding low survival rate. This is because while there is an approved vaccine that can aid in mesothelioma prevention, there is no known mesothelioma cure.
A fully formed ceramic tile is safe to be around, but if it were to be sanded, cracked or otherwise damaged, microscopic particles of asbestos can escape and float into the air. People will breathe them in without even realizing it, and that is when the damage begins. The effects of this inhalation generally take years to develop, so individuals who are exposed to this toxic material may not even know it until a decade or more has passed.
As word spread about the dangers of asbestos, most manufacturers stopped using it. Terrifyingly, others continued to include the mineral in their products, and did not warn anyone. This sordid policy allowed not only the employees of these companies to become exposed to the toxins, but also the customers who purchased the tiles and other goods. When this was discovered, it served only to add to the already tremendous backlash from people who had been harmed or lost loved ones because of products that were contaminated with the hazardous material. Hundreds of thousands of lawsuits were filed by mesothelioma attorneys against the companies that were responsible.
Personal injury claims continue to be filed even now. Part of the reason for this is that the Ceramic Tiles and other items that were made with asbestos are still out there, so anyone who stumbles upon them are put at risk. These products should only ever be removed by a certified professional. Attempting to do so by yourself would be extremely dangerous, so if you find any type of asbestos on your property, hire the services of a contractor who knows how to properly and safely dispose of the contaminated materials.
You may wish to find out more about your rights and legal recourses if you or a loved one has been affected by asbestos. We have created an informational kit that is free to the public, so request your copy today.
Questions about working with ceramic tiles and asbestos exposure? Please contact us.
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