Health hazards from asbestos dust have been recognized among workers exposed in shipbuilding trades, asbestos mining, asbestos manufacturing, insulation work in construction and building trades, automotive brake repair, electrical workers, welders, plumbers, HVAC workers, roofers, among many other trades.

There is evidence that the family members of people who worked with asbestos face an increased risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases. This is most likely as a result of exposure to asbestos dust brought into the home on the shoes and clothing of workers.

For those who worked directly with asbestos containing products or in the same areas as those who worked with asbestos, the risk is truly great and you should be examined regularly for evidence of disease. However, asbestos which was bonded in finished products do not pose as great a health risk as long as the product is not disturbed where the fibers may become airborne. Since the fibers are virtually indestructible, the risk of airborne asbestos is always there. Once they work their way into body tissue, they lodge in and cannot be removed. Simply because you may have worked in a room with asbestos in the floor or ceiling tile, however, does not necessarily increase your risk for the development of disease.