Among the general population the awareness of the dangers associated with asbestos is probably relatively low. And among those who are aware of the substance’s dangers, many people likely have very little idea exactly why asbestos is dangerous. But among the population of building renovators and contractors, knowledge of asbestos and its dangers is considerably high, which is why a recent case in which a contractor mishandled asbestos is resulting in jail time.

South Carolina contractor David Braswell’s company, Cool Cote LLC, was selected to remove siding panels at a local Myrtle Beach hotel in 2009. Instead of properly handling the asbestos which was contained in the siding, Braswell allowed the substance to blow on to the beach, in violation of the federal Clean Air Act. This kind of reckless behavior not only put half beach goers at risk, but it also put areas of the beach at risk of contamination.

Braswell was indicted last year, after it was found that he and his company did not provide protection to the employees who were conducting the operations  or file for the proper inspections. Braswell was recently convicted of not only mishandling the asbestos, but also misleading authorities. He was sentenced to six months in prison, six months of home confinement, three years’ probation, and a $10,000 fine.

Materials containing asbestos containing are practically ubiquitous in the United States and across much of the Western world. As can be seen here, despite the fact that many employers are aware of the dangers, many of them continue to put their employees in harm’s way. If you have become ill with asbestos related disease, such as lung cancer or mesothelioma, contact the Law Office of Brayton Purcell, LLP  at  (800) 598-0314 immediately, or contact us online for a free consultation.

Materials containing asbestos cannot generally be identified by sight, although you may be familiar with certain products that you have encountered before that were known to be made with asbestos. The number one rule, if you suspect asbestos in your home is to leave it alone. Do visually inspect for worn, torn, or frayed materials, but do not disturb any building materials or try to take samples for testing. Have a certified professional check it out.

When Asbestos is Dangerous

Asbestos is only harmful when it is released into the environment. While it is trapped in intact building materials, it is not doing harm. It does not give off toxic fumes or emit radiation. The problem comes about when the fibers are set free by damaging the product in which they are contained.

This can happen through normal wear and tear in your home, but is more common during remodeling. Most importantly, if you know or think you may have asbestos in your home, do not try to remove it yourself. That is both dangerous and illegal. You must have it removed by a certified asbestos abatement professional.

The California asbestos and mesothelioma accident attorneys of Brayton Purcell, LLP, have extensive experience representing victims of asbestos exposure. For a free consultation, please call us today at (800) 598-0314 or contact us online.

Asbestosis is a lung disease caused by asbestos exposure. It is not cancer, but it is not uncommon for people who are diagnosed with asbestosis to later be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Asbestosis is progressive, debilitating, and ultimately fatal. There is no cure, but there are treatments which can extend life and help with quality of life. If you have developed asbestosis, the California asbestos attorneys of Brayton Purcell, LLP, can help you recover compensation that will pay for our medical treatment and care, and help take the pressure off of your loved ones.

Scarring of the Lungs

Asbestosis is progressive scarring of the lungs. When the tiny, sharp asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can get lodged in your lung tissue. There they cause irritation and inflammation. Since your immune system cannot break them down and get rid of them, it encapsulates them in scar tissue. But the irritation and inflammation continue, so your body keeps adding scar tissue.

Eventually this scar tissue impairs you lung function, causing your heart to work overtime trying to compensate for the lack of oxygen.

If you or someone you love has developed asbestosis, please call the California asbestos attorneys of Brayton Purcell, LLP, at (800) 598-0314. We represent asbestosis victims and their families nationwide. We can help you and your family get the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.