Health First: 4 Things to Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos
Science has made it clear that Asbestos is a highly toxic element that was once filtered through concrete buildings around the world. In fact, it is carcinogenic—can cause cancer, most prominently, mesothelioma which doctor’s view as one of the worst forms of cancer.
Mesothelioma has quite a long latency span (around 25– 50 years) which makes treating it quite a challenge. Soon after diagnosis, a victim is given a 12-21-month life expectancy. The fact that our body senses can’t easily detect asbestos is what makes it a menacing threat to human health. It has no smell detectable smell and does irritate the skin when in contact. What’s more, it can spread very easily through the air and therefore can only be removed by specialists.
So, before you even start looking for an experienced lawyer for asbestos exposure, here is a guide on what to do in the event you get exposed to the harmful asbestos.
Image source Wikimedia
What to Do:
- If Asbestos Particles Contaminate Your Eye
One thing; asbestos dust will cause a sting in the eye but rubbing your eyes won’t help. So, if your eyes get contaminated with asbestos particles, then your first move should be to immediately flush with gently running lukewarm water for not less than 5 minutes. You can also flush the water using your clean hands. If irritation persists, visit a doctor ASAP.
- In case you breathe in Asbestos particles
Unfortunately, there’s no known way to expel asbestos dust from your system once it gets in. But the huge motivation is the fact that you can take steps to moderate the risk.
First, you need to flee from the contaminated area as soon as you can so you don’t get exposed for a very long time. Find an open space with clean and fresh air.
Tip: If you intend to rescue someone who has been exposed to the dangerous asbestos particles then it is important that you protect yourself first by putting on protective equipment.
- If Asbestos Dust gets in contact with your skin
The first step is to immediately get away from the contaminated area. And because asbestos dust might have also contaminated your clothing, it is advisable to gently remove them and have them kept in a sealed synthetic bag.
Next, you might need to take not less than 5 minutes in the shower to ensure your skin is thoroughly washed. Be sure to strictly use mild soap, and at all costs, do not rub your skin. Also, make sure the shower is continuously flowing, so you thoroughly wash the asbestos dust away.
- If you unintentionally Ingest Asbestos Fibres
Rinse your mouth repeatedly with clean water. If you feel unwell, be sure to call a physician or poison control without delay.
As it reveals in the above guide, you first thing to do when you get exposed to response to asbestos exposure should be to immediately leave the contaminated place. Experts insist on this because the longer you get exposed, the greater the risk of developing more asbestos-related diseases.
Lastly, once you’ve conducted the first aid response, it is wise to seek a doctor’s medical advice.