Mittens
One of the most widespread uses of asbestos in the twentieth century was in the manufacture of protective clothing for those who worked in situations were they were constantly exposed to dangerous high temperatures that could easily cause burns. Because asbestos was known for its excellent heat resistant properties, it seemed the best and most logical choice for inclusion in these articles of protective clothing. Industries that commonly used asbestos-containing protective gear included power plants, steel and paper mills, chemical manufacturers, oil refineries, and glass makers.
There are many different kinds and pieces of protective clothing but among the most commonly used were mittens or gloves, which protected the hands of the person handling extremely hot equipment or items. After all, protecting one’s hands was of the utmost importance and asbestos was able to keep the heat from traveling to the hands and causing serious burns. Records show that these mitts sometimes contained as much as 40 percent asbestos.
When the mitts were brand new, they were safe to use. However, as they became worn or damaged, asbestos fibers could potentially be released into the air. Furthermore, most people have a habit of touching their face with their hands. That means the asbestos mittens were often in the vicinity of the nose and mouth, making fibers even more likely to be inhaled. Once asbestos fibers enter the body through inhalation, it is impossible to expel them. They may then become lodged in the chest area and cause inflammation. The inflammation causes pain and makes it difficult to breathe. Eventually, the inflammation may develop into a tumor and a form of asbestos cancer known as mesothelioma.
Today, there is proof that many cases of mesothelioma could have been avoided had the average worker been informed of the dangers of asbestos. Studies show that many asbestos manufacturers were well-informed as to the hazards of the naturally-mined mineral but refused to reveal the information to their employees, instead choosing to continue to use the mineral with little or no regard for the lives and health of their employees. Because of this cover-up, those who used protective gear such as mitts continued to inhale asbestos for many more years than necessary.
Finally, in the late 1970s, the government issued warnings about asbestos use, but it was too late for many. However, in the past decade, individuals with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases are beginning to realize that their asbestos exposure was not their fault and are pressing charges against those responsible. In more and more cases, the law is siding with the injured, especially when there is evidence of the cover-up of information about asbestos and its dangers.
If you have mesothelioma due to your exposure to asbestos mittens and other protective items of clothing, take a moment to review your legal options. For more information, order our free mesothelioma resource kit today.
