Style is not the Only Risk with Aged Flooring

February 12, 2008

Denver, CO: It appears that weekend warriors have more to be concerned with than the style and fashion of fixtures in their home. Apparently, many flooring specifically linoleum produced during the 1970's and through the early portion of the 1980's, may have asbestos properties. Exposure to asbestos has been proven to cause Mesothelioma, a type of lung cancer. Home improvement has become a booming business in recent years. This is causing many homeowners to remove linoleum and flooring from older homes. Especially those who flip homes for a living will update floors in older homes. If special precautions aren't taken, the risk for asbestos exposure can turn deadly.



There is a word of caution to owner's of older homes from the (DEQ) Department of Environmental Quality. Anyone living in an older home should have a sample of their flooring tested for the presence of asbestos. The inhalation of particles and dust from asbestos puts a person at risk for developing the deadly lung cancer, known as Mesothelioma.



The removal of such flooring poses a great risk to those looking to engage in home improvement. This act may kick up asbestos particles that have been lying dormant. Extra caution needs to be observed by anyone participating any home renovation that involves flooring. Strict adherence to wearing an approved mask that protects from asbestos removal, and following all precautions for asbestos removal are necessary. If a weekend warrior lacks the knowledge or expertise to do this it may be best to gain the help of a home improvement professional. Be sure to hire someone that is an expert in the removal of asbestos type materials.



Mesothelioma at this time has no known cure. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos or has any fear that they may have been exposed needs to seek medical help immediately. Specifically, a doctor who is well-versed in the detection and treatment of Mesothelioma needs to be contacted. Even though there is no cure finding the best doctors who are masters at treating Mesothelioma, can make all the difference to how the disease is treated.



Also, if the exposure to the asbestos content was of no fault to the victim, legal help may be necessary. Finding an attorney who is skilled in fighting cases of Mesothelioma may help with paying medical bills and making up for work time lost. If the disease has progressed to a severe degree, legal action may help to protect family members and dependents from income loss. It may be a means to bring about justice for the loss of life, security, money, and pain and suffering. Accountability will be required of those who may have had knowledge that the materials were too dangerous and risky to use in the first place. Workplace incidents of exposure may definitely need legal backing. That way employers are required to take responsibility for allowing employees to work in an unsafe environment. Plus workman's compensation and other sources may not cover medical bills, time lost at work, or to cover other necessary living expenses for the victim and family members.



By Delsia Hartford