Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly condition that develops when asbestos fibers are inhaled. Many older buildings in Florida still contain asbestos. This poses a risk to residents because Florida’s climate continuously strains these structures. If these materials break due to heat, humidity, or a hurricane, the harmful fibres may leak out and be unknowingly inhaled. Awareness of this risk forms a significant aspect of protection.
Why Asbestos Still Matters in Florida
Before the 1980s, asbestos was a commonly used construction material. Many houses, apartments, and commercial buildings in Florida were built at the time. Roofing, insulation, floor tiles, drywall, and even plumbing materials often contained asbestos.
When its risks became known, regulations were imposed to reduce its use. However, it was never completely banned in the US. This means it is still sitting in many aging structures. Florida’s hot climate speeds up the breakdown of these old materials, making exposure more likely.
How Heat and Humidity Break Down Asbestos
Over time, Florida’s heat can make the construction materials fragile. During hot summers, roof shingles can crack. Attic insulation can also dry out and crumble. Drywall can expand and contract, becoming fragile in the process.
Humidity adds another problem. Moisture gets inside ceilings and insulation making the asbestos-containing materials swell or soften. After drying, they become prone to cracking. Even minimal disturbance at this point can send asbestos fibers into the air.
Hurricanes: Florida’s Biggest Source of Asbestos Disturbance
Hurricanes cause severe damage. High winds destroy buildings and houses. Rainwater causes flooding. The soaked building materials become unstable after drying. This combination acts like a large demolition event.
After storms such as Irma and Ian, many older neighborhoods reported damaged asbestos materials. Cleanup began quickly. Citizens hastened to clear up, most without safety equipment. This is the period of maximum exposure risk. As asbestos-containing materials break, they release microscopic fibers that stay suspended in the air for hours. Anyone breathing in this air can take them in without noticing.
DIY Repairs After Storms
The residents of Florida usually perform their own repairs, particularly after hurricanes. This may be risky when the house is already old. Sawing drywall, sanding ceilings, ripping off tile, or repairing roofing may disturb asbestos.
Popcorn ceilings are also a hazard. So are old floor tiles and insulation. A professional asbestos inspection is advisable before touching any of these materials. This is a simple measure that keeps your home and your health safe.
Who Faces the Highest Risk?
Certain groups are more likely to encounter asbestos:
- Roofers and construction workers
- HVAC technicians
- Hurricane cleanup crews
- Homeowners fixing older houses
- Tenants living in aging apartments
A short exposure can also be equally damaging. This is because mesothelioma remains in remission for decades. The symptoms normally appear decades after exposure.
How to Reduce Exposure in Florida
There are ways to stay safe:
- Have an asbestos inspection prior to renovations
- Do not disturb old insulation, ceiling tiles, or roofing
- Use protective equipment when cleaning up
- Engage certified personnel in asbestos removal
- Observe local protocols in dealing with storm debris
These steps reduce the vulnerability to exposures and keep families safer during storm season. In case you feel that you were exposed due to unsafe conditions, a Florida mesotheliomalawyer may assist in clarifying your legal options.
For individuals already exposed, it is worth learning about mesothelioma treatment options. Medical support and community resources are also available to people who are fighting mesothelioma.
Endnote
Florida’s climate presents special conditions that augment the asbestos hazards. Heat, humidity and hurricanes further aggravate the problem. Staying alert and being cautious is important to eliminate the risk.
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