Know the Health Risks of Asbestos and Only Hire Trained Contractors

Ask the asbestos contractor you'd like to hire if they have had any safety violations. Find out if there are legal actions filed against it.

Insist that the asbestos contractor use the proper equipment to do the job. The workers must wear approved respirators, gloves, and other protective clothing.

Make sure the work site is clearly marked as a hazard area. Do not allow household members and pets into the area until work is completed.

Insist that the contractor apply a wetting agent to the asbestos material with a hand sprayer that creates a fine mist before removal. Wet fibers do not float in the air as easily as dry fibers and will be easier to clean up.

Make sure the contractor does not break removed material into small pieces. This could release asbestos fibers into the air. Pipe insulation was usually installed in preformed blocks and should be removed in complete pieces.

Upon completion, assure that the contractor cleans the area well with wet mops, wet rags, sponges, or HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) vacuum cleaners. A regular vacuum cleaner must never be used. Wetting helps reduce the chance of spreading asbestos fibers in the air.

The dangers of asbestos are all too familiar to the mesothelioma attorneys in the Weitz & Luxenberg P.C. Asbestos Litigation unit.

We are a leading plaintiffs' law firm that has represented people affected by mesothelioma for over 20 years. Men and women diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure or secondary exposure may be entitled to compensation from the companies responsible for their disease.

If you would like a free consultation or more information about your legal options, please complete the form on this page, and a representative of our law firm will contact you as soon as possible.