Many Minnesota residents live in older homes. While new construction appeals to some people, others are more attracted to older homes because of the architectural beauty or character of such structures. Then, too, many people have inherited older homes, perhaps, living in the same houses where they spent their own childhoods. An old house might have a lot of artistic value, but such homes also often carry a high risk for asbestos exposure.
If a house was built before 1980, there is a good chance it contains asbestos. In fact, during this time period, it was common for ceilings, walls and floors to be constructed with materials that contain asbestos. Vinyl flooring, in particular, is often laden with asbestos and was a popular floor choice in pre-1980s home construction.
Asbestos is known for its insulation and flame-retardant properties. This is why the pipes in many older homes are lined with insulation that contains the microscopic fibers. If the roof on a home is made of corrugated sheets, it is likely to contain a durable material known as white asbestos.
Minnesota residents are not only at risk for asbestos exposure in their homes, but such dangers exist in many workplaces as well, which is why employers must inform their workers of known asbestos risks and also provide proper training and equipment to help keep them safe on the job. A specific type of inspection must be done to determine if there is asbestos at a particular location. Exposure often results in serious illnesses that devastate the lives of those affected. In fact, many asbestos-related incidents lead to litigation when victims of exposure file injury claims against parties deemed negligent in their cases.
