You do not have to work in an asbestos-intensive industry or be in direct contact with this harmful substance to be at risk of exposure. If a household member interacts with asbestos, they may unsuspectingly bring it home. Over time, other members of the household may suffer the effects of exposure. This is known as secondary asbestos exposure, and it is equally deadly.
If a family member is diagnosed with mesothelioma-related complications, they may have a valid claim and could be compensated.
How does secondary exposure happen?
Asbestos fibers can attach to practically anything, including hair. While one may take all necessary precautions to prevent this from occurring, it is almost always inevitable that you will end up with some asbestos fibers on your clothes or person.
When you get home, the household members will be exposed since these fibers will remain within the house. Furniture, clothing, and physical contact are some of the major catalysts of secondary asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers can be ingested or inhaled, showing how easy it is to be unknowingly exposed. Given the long period it takes for asbestos-related complications to manifest, it can take years for someone to realize they were in the line of danger.
Know your rights after a mesothelioma diagnosis
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to secondary exposure, you may consider a negligence claim against the responsible party. The sooner you begin legal action, the better.
Mesothelioma can be a costly disease to manage, and it is only right that you get compensation to cover all the damages you suffered. Learning more about your rights and what you need in your mesothelioma claim will help you inch closer to getting the justice you deserve.