Posted on April 3, 2017
Each year, ADAO dedicates April 1-7 to increasing awareness of asbestos and preventing exposure by bringing together experts and victims from around the world to share, learn, and take action. To view all 7 days of Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW) contributors and content on our landing page, please click here.
Asbestos is a known carcinogen and there is no safe level of exposure. Since the 19th century, asbestos was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and the automotive industry. Without a ban, asbestos remains legal and lethal in the USA and nearly 70% of countries around the world today.
Today, we’re highlighting lifesaving asbestos exposure prevention techniques. While promising research continues, preventing exposure remains the only cure for asbestos-caused diseases, so at ADAO we say “Hear Asbestos. Think Prevention.” We will also feature the moving story of Day Three Ambassador: John Panza, Ohio, US: “We Live Each Day with Passion and Fun”
Most people are unaware that asbestos is still lethal and legal in the United States, and consequently, they don’t know where they may encounter the deadly carcinogen or how to manage their risk. One barrier to preventing asbestos exposure is that a significant amount of exposure happens at job sites as a result of negligent employers who fail to protect employees for the toxic mineral.
In the US, business-friendly laws and loophole-ridden regulations have made occupational exposures historically difficult to prevent. It wasn’t until legendary asbestos plaintiff Clarence Borel’s case opened up the courtrooms to asbestos victims that we finally had some legal help in preventing occupational exposures. Clarence’s case opened the door for other asbestos-exposed workers to sue, which is the only thing that has made employers take any sort of real steps toward prevention. Last year, I was honored to collaborate with Clarence Borel’s granddaughter Bridget Bersin, to tell this game-changing story in the prestigious academic journal New Solutions.
ADAO’s educational resources are meant to change this misinformation, spread awareness, prevent unnecessary asbestos exposure, and provide resources for victims who are already exposed.
Educational Resources:
- PREVENTION: Learn how to prevent asbestos exposure at work, in your home, or after a disaster
- Graphics and Infographics
- Conference Presentations and Interviews Video Library from 2004 – 2015
- PowerPoint Presentations
- Fact Sheets, Resolutions, and U.S. Surgeon General Statements
- Top 5 Asbestos Facts
- U.S. Government Agencies and United Nations Organizations
GAAW is the perfect time to share these education resources and prevention strategies — it’s a snap and it saves lives!
Linda Reinstein