Quantitating Asbestos Content In Friable Bulk Samples: Development Of A Stratified Point-Counting Method - (1990)

Quantitating Asbestos Content in Friable Bulk Samples: Development of a Stratified Point-Counting Method

Abstract The study "Quantitating Asbestos Content in Friable Bulk Samples: Development of a Stratified Point-Counting Method," authored by S. Webber, R.J. Janutis, and M.B. Gillespie, was published in the American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal in 1990. This research evaluates the precision and efficiency of a newly developed stratified point-counting method for quantifying asbestos in friable bulk materials. The study found that the stratified method produced results comparable to the EPA's 400-point-count method but required significantly less time, making it a more efficient alternative for laboratory analysis.

Legal Relevance This study provides critical evidence for asbestos-related legal claims by highlighting the importance of accurate asbestos quantification. The findings demonstrate that visual estimation methods, commonly used in the past, were prone to inaccuracies, particularly at low asbestos concentrations. This could support claims that individuals were unknowingly exposed to hazardous asbestos due to inadequate testing or misclassification of materials.

The study also emphasizes that even low concentrations of asbestos (1-5%) pose significant health risks and are classified as asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) under regulatory definitions. This evidence can be used to argue that minimal exposure to ACMs could have contributed to asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis. Furthermore, the research underscores the need for rigorous testing methods, which may not have been employed by manufacturers or employers, strengthening claims of negligence or failure to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure.

Occupation Groups at Risk The study's findings are particularly relevant to individuals in occupations with high asbestos exposure risks. These include:

1. Construction Workers: Frequently exposed to friable asbestos in insulation, fireproofing, and sprayed-on materials during demolition or renovation projects.
2. Shipyard Workers: Historically exposed to asbestos in shipbuilding materials, including insulation and fireproofing.
3. Industrial Workers: Encountered asbestos in machinery, gaskets, and other industrial equipment.
4. Electricians and Plumbers: Worked with or near asbestos-containing materials such as pipe insulation and electrical panels.
5. Asbestos Abatement Professionals: Directly handled asbestos-containing materials during removal processes.
6. Firefighters: Exposed to asbestos in older buildings and fireproofing materials during emergency responses.
7. Teachers and Office Workers: Indirect exposure in older buildings with asbestos-containing materials, such as ceiling tiles and insulation.

These groups are at high risk due to the friable nature of asbestos in many workplace scenarios, which increases the likelihood of inhaling airborne fibers.

Current Medical Understanding The study aligns with current medical knowledge that even low levels of asbestos exposure can lead to severe health risks. It reinforces the understanding that accurate quantification of asbestos in materials is essential for assessing exposure risks and implementing safety measures. However, the study also highlights ongoing challenges, such as the difficulty of quantifying very low asbestos concentrations and analyzing nonfriable materials, which remain critical issues in asbestos research and regulation.

Citation Webber, S., Janutis, R. J., & Gillespie, M. B. (1990). Quantitating Asbestos Content in Friable Bulk Samples: Development of a Stratified Point-Counting Method. American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, 51(8), 447-452.

National Library of Medicine Link Unfortunately, a direct link to the National Library of Medicine's page for this study is not available. Readers are encouraged to consult the American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal or other reputable sources for further details.

Contact Us Today If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, or another asbestos-related disease, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced legal team specializes in asbestos-related claims and can help you navigate the complexities of your case. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and secure the justice and compensation you deserve.