What to Do if Asbestos is Found in Your Building (For Workers, Tenants, and Students)

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral widely used in construction materials and household items until the 1980s. However, it was later discovered that this substance poses significant health risks when disturbed. When asbestos is disturbed, its fine fibers can become airborne. When inhaled, these fibers can cause life-threatening illnesses, including mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer, as well as lung cancer and asbestosis. Because of the dangers posed by asbestos exposure, it is crucial to know exactly what steps to take if asbestos is found in your home, workplace, or any building you occupy, even as a worker, tenant, or student.

1. Don’t Disturb the Asbestos
   • Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) such as popcorn ceilings, vinyl floor tiles, cement sheets, and fireproofing materials pose the most significant risk when damaged or disturbed. If you believe or suspect the presence of asbestos in your building, don’t touch or disturb it.
2. Involve an Inspector
   • Building owners are responsible for hiring an inspector if they suspect or believe their building contains asbestos. A licensed asbestos inspector can safely assess the suspected ACMs and collect samples for testing. These professionals are trained to identify ACMs and evaluate their conditions. An asbestos inspector can help determine the best way of handling ACMs.
   • As a worker, tenant, or student, you may be unable to hire an inspector. Therefore, report the issue to the relevant authority, for example, your landlord. If no action is taken or your health is at risk, you may also contact local or state health departments, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
3. Don’t Try Removing the Asbestos
   • If the inspector determines that the asbestos needs to be removed, you should not try to remove it yourself. Let the property owner hire a licensed asbestos abatement company. DIY asbestos removal can be extremely dangerous. Asbestos removal requires specialized equipment and containment strategies. If the asbestos needs to be encapsulated (sealed) instead of removed, leave that job, too, to the professionals.
4. Understand Your Rights
   • You have the right to be in a safe environment. For instance, as a tenant, your landlord may be legally obligated to disclose known asbestos risks and follow local housing and safety regulations. Also, landlords are obligated to take tenant reports of possible asbestos seriously and act. Failure to do so may result in legal liability for negligence or code violations.
5. Document Everything
   • Keep records of your complaints, emails, and photos of suspected ACMs. If you believe you have suffered asbestos exposure, note down what you believe the source of exposure is and any health symptoms you may be experiencing. This documentation can be vital if you pursue legal action.

Finally, if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos due to no fault of your own and are experiencing health problems, contact an attorney for help determining if you might be entitled to compensation.

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If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.