Philadelphia Asbestos Attorneys Report on New Asbestos Detection Device

Researchers at the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom have revealed what purports to be a revolutionary breakthrough in the ability to test for airborne asbestos-containing fibers.  This progressive device is said to be the first asbestos-detection device that is transportable and can provide test results instantaneously.

Currently, there are two methods used to check for lingering airborne asbestos fibers.  A filter can be used to collect fibers at a building’s site.  The fibers can then be analyzed at an offsite laboratory to establish if any of the airborne fibers contain the toxic asbestos.  The potential problem with this method is the delay in time between collection and testing.

An alternate means to analyze questionable fibers in the air is with a portable sensor.  This portable device can be used on-site.  However, the current apparatus has its limitations.  Although its portability makes it expedient, it cannot distinguish between asbestos and other less hazardous fibers.

The researchers at the University of Hertfordshire use laser technology in their new portable device.   Asbestos fibers have unique characteristics that respond distinctively when laser light is aligned with a magnetic field in the apparatus.  The advantage of the new detection design is that the presence of asbestos can be immediately identified on-site.  Therefore, safety precautions can be proactively taken to protect workers from asbestos exposure.

Models of the new portable detection devices are being tested in locations where active asbestos removal, building demolition and renovations are underway.  The first Hertfordshire devices are scheduled to be available for use in industry within 12 to 18 months.  This is extremely promising, since timelier and more accurate detection of asbestos may reduce asbestos exposure and the occurrence of asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma.

If you or someone you love may have been exposed to asbestos at work or within your community and is now suffering from lung cancer, mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, contact the Philadelphia asbestos attorneys at the law firm of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. With offices in Center City Philadelphia, we are conveniently located to represent victims of asbestos throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our asbestos attorneys are compassionate and caring professionals who understand the sensitive nature of asbestos-related diseases, as well as the complexities of asbestos cases. We will assist you in recovering the compensation you and your family deserve. Call us at 1-888-740-0925 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today.

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Philadelphia Asbestos Attorneys: Chrysotile Asbestos Remains Free From Exportation Restrictions

For the first time in four years of lobbying, Canada remained neutral in opposition to have Chrysotile asbestos added to the hazardous substance list of the Rotterdam Convention. However, even though all but seven of the attending 143 countries agreed to add Chrysotile asbestos to the hazardous substance list, without unanimous approval the toxin cannot be added to the list.

The Rotterdam Convention is a joint treaty by member nations to endorse united responsibilities in relation to importation of harmful substances. When a substance is included on the list, exporters of the hazardous chemicals are required to use accurate tagging on their shipping materials, include directions on safe usage, and notify buyers of any known restraints or prohibitions. Distributing nations that participate in the Convention are obligated to make sure that producers of the hazardous substances within their authority conform to the exportation and labeling requirements. Unfortunately, in order for a chemical to be included on the hazardous substance list, a unanimous agreement is needed. Therefore, Chrysotile asbestos remains free from exportation restrictions.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen.  The toxic fibers become airborne when not handled properly and are then inhaled.  Once in the lungs, the fibers become embedded deep in the lining of the lungs where they can remain dormant for 20-50 years.  Once mesothelioma develops from the fibers, there is no cure, and death usually follows within a year of diagnosis.  Asbestos fibers pose risks not only to those who handle the product, but also to those with second-hand exposure.  The tiny fibers can be carried from place to place on the clothes, shoes, and hair of those exposed, and can be inhaled by friends and family members who come in contact with the material.

Despite the widely-acknowledged link between asbestos and mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, seven countries participating in the Rotterdam Convention remain in opposition to classifying Chrysotile asbestos as a hazardous substance. Russia and China are the leaders in asbestos production, producing approximately 1 million tons of the substance just last year.  Russia participated in the annual Rotterdam Convention for the first time this year, joining forces with Zimbabwe, Kazakhstan, India, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam and Ukraine to block the addition of Chrysotile asbestos to the hazardous substance list.

A diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestosis is devastating.  The Pennsylvania asbestos attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler have been representing victims of asbestos exposure since 1984.  Our experienced asbestos attorneys have helped victims of asbestos exposure seek justice and compensation.  If you or someone you love has been exposed to asbestos, or has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease like mesothelioma or asbestosis, call us today at 888-740-0925 or contact us online.  We can help you and your family determine the best legal strategy and represent you throughout all phases of your claim.

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Philadelphia Asbestos Attorneys Discuss the Risk of Mesothelioma for Firefighters

Firefighters regularly face many hazardous situations including blazing fires, excessive heat, smoke inhalation and dangerous rescues.  Although a firefighter may be prepared for the associated perils that are part of the job of fighting fires, there is another hidden danger.  Firefighters are at a great risk of asbestos exposure as a result of their duty of saving lives.

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials prior to 1980 before its toxicity was an accepted fact.  Asbestos exposure can occur when firefighters respond to a call in an older home containing asbestos.  Once a firefighter extinguishes a fire, they will normally remove their protective breathing mask.  If the building site contains any asbestos, the fibers can breakdown, become airborne and remain on surfaces and clothing.  Once inhaled, the toxic material can become lodged in a firefighter’s lungs.

Sites of explosions and building collapses are particularly hazardous. A recent study of New York City firefighters who responded to Ground Zero when terrorists attacked Manhattan on 9/11 were found to have an astounding amount of lung scarring.  Toxic asbestos fibers and other carcinogens became airborne and became a deadly dust cloud as the building burned and collapsed. Many of the rescuers and first responders were working without protective gear or breathing masks. Investigations continue into the lasting effects of 9/11.

The protective fire-retardant uniforms and other apparatus that firefighters utilize may also pose health hazards.  Some older firefighting gear was crafted with durable asbestos fibers to enhance its resistance to heat.   Once the fibers wear down, however, the toxic asbestos fibers are released into the air presenting a very serious health hazard.

If you are a firefighter exposed to asbestos at work and are now suffering from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, contact the Philadelphia asbestos attorneys at the law offices of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler.  With offices in Center City Philadelphia, we are conveniently located to represent asbestos victims throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our asbestos attorneys are compassionate and caring professionals who understand the sensitive nature of asbestos-related diseases, as well as the legal complexities of asbestos cases. We will assist you in recovering the compensation you and your family deserve. Call us at 888-740-0925 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today at a location convenient to you and your family.

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