Dry Cleaners Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral previously used in building materials due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. It can be released into the air as microscopic fibers, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Mesothelioma Key Facts:

Here are some key facts about mesothelioma:

• Mesothelioma is a type of cancer affecting the chest and abdomen lining.
• The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.
• Asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma when they become lodged in the mesothelial lining of the chest or abdomen and cause cellular mutations.
• The symptoms of mesothelioma can take many years to develop after initial asbestos exposure.
• Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life for mesothelioma patients.
• There are three main types of mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the lungs), peritoneal mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the abdomen), and pericardial mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the heart).
• Treatment options for mesothelioma can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
• Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, but the number of cases is expected to increase in the coming years due to the long latency period between exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms.
• Many countries have banned the use of asbestos, but it is still used in some products in some parts of the world.
• To reduce the risk of mesothelioma and other health problems associated with asbestos exposure, it is important to avoid contact with asbestos-containing materials and to take proper precautions if removal or disposal is necessary.

How Might You Be Impacted?

In dry cleaners, asbestos may be released if the building in which it is located contains asbestos-containing materials and if these materials become disturbed. This can occur during renovations, demolitions, or simply through normal wear and tear. Dry cleaning solvents may also react with asbestos-containing materials and release fibers into the air. To minimize the risk of exposure, it is important to have a professional assess the presence of asbestos in a building and follow proper procedures for its removal and disposal if necessary.

What Conditions Does Asbestos Cause?

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems when inhaled or ingested. The following are some of the most common health conditions caused by asbestos exposure:

• Asbestosis: A progressive lung disease characterized by scarring of the lung tissue.
• Lung Cancer: Asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer when lodged in the lung tissue and cause cellular mutations.
• Mesothelioma: A rare cancer that affects the chest and abdomen lining, often resulting from asbestos exposure.
• Pleural Plaques: A condition in which fibrous tissue forms on the pleura, the lining of the lung and chest cavity.
• Pleural Effusion: A buildup of fluid in the pleural cavity, which can cause shortness of breath and chest pain.
• Pleurisy: Inflammation of the pleura, which can cause chest pain and difficulty breathing.

It is important to note that the symptoms of these conditions may not appear until many years after asbestos exposure, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. To minimize the risk of exposure, it is important to avoid asbestos-containing materials and to follow proper procedures for removal and disposal if necessary.

What Are Some Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. It can take many years for symptoms to appear after initial exposure, and the symptoms can be similar to those of many other conditions, making mesothelioma difficult to diagnose.

Some common symptoms of mesothelioma include:

• Chest pain and discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain and swelling
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness or changes in the voice
• Lumps under the skin on the chest or abdomen

If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible for an evaluation and proper diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life for mesothelioma patients.

Other Health Risks for Dry Cleaners

In addition to the potential for asbestos exposure, dry cleaners may also face other health risks. These can include:

• Chemical exposure: Dry cleaners use a variety of chemicals in their operations, including solvents and detergents. These chemicals can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues if not handled properly.
• Respiratory problems: Workers in dry cleaners may be exposed to fumes and vapors from solvents and other chemicals, which can cause respiratory problems such as bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses.
• Musculoskeletal disorders: Repetitive motions and awkward postures associated with tasks such as sorting, folding, and hanging clothes can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, and neck pain.
• Stress: Dry cleaning workers may experience stress due to the physical demands of the job, tight deadlines, and other workplace factors.
• Slip and fall accidents: Wet floors, cluttered work areas, and poorly maintained equipment can increase the risk of slip and fall accidents, which can result in serious injury.

To minimize these risks, dry cleaners should ensure that their workers are properly trained in the safe handling of chemicals, follow OSHA regulations, and take steps to reduce physical strain and stress in the workplace. Regular air quality monitoring and testing, as well as providing personal protective equipment, can also help to reduce the risks associated with dry cleaning operations.

Next Steps

If you have developed a health condition that you believe may be related to your work, the following steps are recommended:

• Seek medical attention: It is important to see a doctor to evaluate the symptoms and diagnose the underlying condition.
• Report the condition to the employer: If the condition is work-related, you should report it to your employer and record the report.
• Contact a workers’ compensation attorney: A workers’ compensation attorney can help you to understand your rights and to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
• Seek support: You should also seek support from family and friends, as well as support groups for individuals with similar conditions.

It is important to take prompt action in seeking medical attention, reporting the condition to the employer, and filing a workers’ compensation claim to ensure you can receive the benefits and support you need to manage your condition and maintain your quality of life.