A new device for detecting asbestos has recently been released. The new sensor comes from the University of Hertfordshire in England; the device works on site, with no need to send samples back to a lab—both costly and time consuming.
Asbestos is still used in construction; it’s relatively inexpensive to mine and ship, and it’s very fire-retardant. But the cost of this mineral manifests in other ways; friction and other kinds of energy exchange working on asbestos release invisible, tiny fibers (called friable asbestos), which can lodge in human lungs and trigger an aggressive cancer, mesothelioma. Mesothelioma can lie dormant for decades; once it surfaces, it usually proves fatal within a year.
Avoiding exposure to asbestos is the best way to ward off mesothelioma. But for some people, asbestos exposure is an occupational hazard. Building demolition and renovation, antique car repair, and mining all put people in the path of friable asbestos. Before this new device was invented, testing for asbestos required sending samples to a lab.
The new device works like this: a laser shines on a stream of airborne particles; light reflects off the particles (this allows scientists to detect single airborne fibers far too small to be seen with the naked eye); then the stream of airborne particles is pushed through a magnetic field. On the opposite side, lasers are shined through the same air stream. If the fibers line up with the magnetic field, they’re probably asbestos. It seems these devices will hit the market in 12 to 18 months, and cost around $800; this will make them readily accessible to construction companies and some larger-scale residential renovation projects.
If you or someone you care for has suffered an injury as a result of negligence, you have options. Contact 844 See Mike, at 312-224-4695 for a free consultation. We are a Chicago Asbestos law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. 844 See Mike, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, 844 See Mike, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.