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Asbestos is far from being a problem of the past. This dangerous substance can still be found in a number of older products that still exist today, and new uses in specific industries may make it difficult for people in South Carolina to avoid asbestos exposure throughout the course of their lives. For example, depending on the age of a person’s home, asbestos could be hiding in plain sight.

The once-popular popcorn ceilings may have gone out of fashion a couple of decades ago, but many homes and apartments still sport these ceiling styles. Popcorn ceilings were especially popular between the 1950s and 1980s. This type of ceiling is noted for its ease of application, ability to hide imperfections and acoustic benefits. Asbestos was a primary ingredient in the popcorn ceiling, and a 1977 ban on the ingredient in the spray-on paint did not necessarily stop its use. Manufacturers were given permission to continue using this asbestos product until they ran out of existing stock.

When contained within a product or material, asbestos does not pose much threat. However, when things like popcorn ceilings or floor tiles are disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne. Once inhaled, people can develop serious and even fatal diseases. Popcorn ceilings might not have posed much of a threat when first applied, but aging homes with older and less sturdy components could be a different story.

If a person suffered from asbestos exposure because of another person’s negligent upkeep, it is possible to pursue compensation for any resulting injuries. Diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma usually involve steep medical bills that can be difficult or even impossible to pay off. By holding negligent parties in South Carolina responsible for their actions, victims may be able to better focus on their health and future well-being.