Asbestos Exposure in New Orleans

In the New Orleans area, asbestos exposure is a particular concern due to its presence in various environments, including shipyards, factories, construction sites, and public buildings. 

Shipyards

Asbestos was commonly used to insulate pipes, boilers, and incinerators in shipyards. Many of these areas were poorly ventilated, leading to significant asbestos exposure for workers, particularly those involved in shipbuilding during and after World War II.

Factories

Factories and manufacturing facilities in New Orleans often used asbestos in heating plants and other industrial environments. Workers in these settings may have been exposed to asbestos over the years, potentially leading to long-term health consequences.

Construction Sites

Asbestos-containing materials were frequently used in the construction of commercial buildings, such as schools, hospitals, apartments, and residential homes. Construction workers who handled these materials or performed renovations on older buildings may have been exposed to asbestos fibers.

Public Buildings

Many public buildings in New Orleans, including office buildings, municipal buildings, schools, and hospitals, have been identified as sites of asbestos exposure. Notably, Rosenwald Middle School was closed due to asbestos found in floor tiles and construction glue, and Lafayette Academy was investigated for asbestos materials discovered between 2016 and 2017.

Despite its extensive use in commercial products, the dangers of asbestos exposure have been recognized for centuries. However, the U.S. government and the asbestos industry have been criticized for their delayed response in informing the public about these risks. Prolonged exposure to asbestos is now known to cause serious health issues, most notably mesothelioma—a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the protective lining of many internal organs.

Symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses often include shortness of breath, chest pain, and unexplained weight loss. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

As we wrote in our blog post on Asbestos Exposure Symptoms, despite increased regulation in the 1970s and 1980s, asbestos exposure continues to be a significant health issue in the United States, including in the New Orleans area. Understanding why asbestos remains a concern is essential for recognizing the ongoing risks.

Long-Term Impact of Past Exposure

Asbestos-related diseases typically take decades to develop. Even though the use of asbestos was heavily regulated and reduced in the late 20th century, many people who were exposed to asbestos before these regulations took effect are only now beginning to show symptoms. This is because diseases like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related conditions often have long latency periods, meaning they can remain dormant for 20 to 50 years or more before becoming symptomatic.

Continued Presence of Asbestos in Older Buildings

Many buildings constructed before the regulations were enacted still contain asbestos materials. This includes homes, schools, hospitals, and other public and commercial structures. Renovation, demolition, or even routine maintenance of these older buildings can disturb asbestos fibers, releasing them into the air and posing a risk to workers and residents. In New Orleans, where many historic buildings are still in use, the risk of encountering asbestos during renovations is particularly high.

Legacy Exposure

People who worked in industries where asbestos was prevalent—such as shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing—may have been exposed to asbestos fibers decades ago. Even though these industries have implemented safer practices, the legacy of past exposure lingers. This is why new cases of asbestos-related illnesses are expected to continue surfacing for years to come, as individuals exposed in the past develop symptoms later in life.

The Importance of Ongoing Vigilance

While the risks associated with new asbestos exposure have diminished due to regulation, the presence of asbestos in older buildings and the long latency period of related diseases means that asbestos is still a health issue today. It is crucial for individuals who may have been exposed in the past to remain vigilant about their health and for those working in industries involving older buildings to take appropriate precautions.