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Most people know that asbestos is dangerous and can lead to a number of health issues. However, few understand exactly what this toxic substance is or why asbestos exposure is so harmful to human health. By better understanding the substance and its identifying features, individuals in South Carolina can better protect themselves.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally and in rather abundant quantities. It is a seemingly incredibly useful substance, as it is resistant to heat and relatively strong. It was once favored as an insulator in homes and buildings, and used in a wide variety of other products, including in brake pads for vehicles. It was widely used for decades until its ill-effects became obvious, and all new uses in the United States were temporarily banned in 1989. That was overturned in 1990, although certain uses are still banned.

It is incredibly difficult for the average person to identify asbestos. After all, most people will not encounter this substance in the wild since it must be mined from the ground, meaning they have no idea what to look for. However, individuals should be aware of some of the most common areas in which asbestos may be found. These can include roofing felt, vinyl floor tiles, pipeline wrappings and more.

Asbestos is durable and fibrous, and the dust it produces can have long-lasting consequences if inhaled. Victims in South Carolina often develop serious diseases, such as mesothelioma or the less commonly known asbestosis, which is scarring on the lungs. Compensation for these injuries may feel out-of-reach, especially when dealing with a large corporation whose neglect led to asbestos exposure, but many victims achieve just legal recourse through carefully pursued civil suits.