Center for Asbestos Safety in the Workplace

The epidemic of chronic diseases caused by asbestos has been called "the worst workplace tragedy in American history."

This site is a resource for anybody who has worked with or near asbestos in the past or who works near asbestos today. Retired workers need to know about who might have been exposed, the health effects of asbestos, and what they can do if they become ill. Today's workers need to know how to protect themselves, their families, and their co-workers from the effects of asbestos.

People who work with asbestos have increased chances of getting cancer, both lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the thin membrane that surrounds the lung and other internal organs. Sickness does not develop immediately, but appears years after exposure. Engineering controls include such things as isolating the asbestos and using air control (ventilation zones). Two simple things employers can do to reduce risk are limiting the workers exposure time and providing showers. Personal protective equipment includes respiratory protection and clothing.

In this site we answer the questions:

What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?

How can I protect myself and my family if I work near asbestos?

What should I do if I've been exposed?