It is relatively rare. While studies show that men are the most prominent victims of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, here are a few examples of how a women may have contracted mesothelioma, prior to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) implementation of limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace in the early 1970’s:
Working in company laundry facilities:
Women who worked in company laundry facilities, where asbestos was used in large commercial dryers and other appliances where heat and fire was a threat, were at risk for asbestos exposure. If asbestos insulation was damaged, asbestos fibers could circulate, and potentially be inhaled or ingested. Additionally, women who cleaned these facilities may have been exposed to fibers while sweeping asbestos dust from the floors.
SIMILARLY:
Wives of asbestos workers were subjected to second hand asbestos exposure every time they put their husband’s work clothes into the washing machine at home. Many asbestos workers literally “brought their work home” on their clothing and in their hair.
Working for cosmetics companies:
At one time, asbestos was used in cosmetics, and women who worked in factories that manufactured asbestos-containing make-up and powders may have inhaled the mineral on a daily basis.
During World War II:
During World War II, civilian women were often hired to work in shipyards, steel-producing facilities, and power plants to replace men who had gone to war. Asbestos was commonplace in these environments.
Working in company laundry facilities:
Women who worked in company laundry facilities, where asbestos was used in large commercial dryers and other appliances where heat and fire was a threat, were at risk for asbestos exposure. If asbestos insulation was damaged, asbestos fibers could circulate, and potentially be inhaled or ingested. Additionally, women who cleaned these facilities may have been exposed to fibers while sweeping asbestos dust from the floors.
SIMILARLY:
Wives of asbestos workers were subjected to second hand asbestos exposure every time they put their husband’s work clothes into the washing machine at home. Many asbestos workers literally “brought their work home” on their clothing and in their hair.
Working for cosmetics companies:
At one time, asbestos was used in cosmetics, and women who worked in factories that manufactured asbestos-containing make-up and powders may have inhaled the mineral on a daily basis.
During World War II:
During World War II, civilian women were often hired to work in shipyards, steel-producing facilities, and power plants to replace men who had gone to war. Asbestos was commonplace in these environments.
by Ami
