Even those who were not working in asbestos-containing environments can still experience secondary para-occupational exposure. This means that loved ones living with someone who worked in an asbestos-containing environment can be exposed through the fibers that remain on the worker’s clothing, hair, work shoes, and work bag. This secondhand exposure can still lead to the development of mesothelioma, proving that asbestos exposure can happen anywhere.
The OSHA created safety protocols that involve wearing protective gear and other preventative measures. However, this did not go into effect until well after 1980. This means that those who had loved ones work in asbestos-containing workplaces prior to 1980 still carry the risk of developing mesothelioma due to secondhand exposure.
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