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When you hear the word “natural” with regard to minerals and things, it usually evokes images of good health. However, there are some natural minerals that are known to be extremely dangerous if a person is repeatedly exposed to them, such as asbestos. Asbestos is actually more than one naturally occurring mineral, known to be fire retardant, durable at high temperatures and chemical resistant. South Carolina workers suffering from asbestos exposure can tell you that it’s anything but healthy.

The problem is that asbestos also places anyone exposed to it at great risk for adverse health conditions. When tiny asbestos fibers are ingested, it can set the stage for serious health risks, such as asbestiosis and mesothelioma cancer. The former is a serious lung disease, and the latter is a pleural condition referring to malignancy in the area between the lungs and chest wall.

Another troubling matter is that many people are not immediately aware they’ve been repeatedly exposed to asbestos. Even in situations where awareness exists, symptoms of disease may not show for years after exposure. Often, serious damage has already occurred within the body before an afflicted person knows he or she is ill.

Asbestos exposure situations often lead to litigation if someone is deemed negligent, such as an employer who failed to warn workers of the presence of asbestos on the job, or to inform them of the potential risks involved with exposure. Richardson, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman, LLC, in South Carolina, is fully prepared to assist any person in this state whose health has been impacted by asbestos exposure. Our experienced team is ready to help you protect your rights and fight for any compensation to which you may be entitled.