New Jersey mesothelioma lawyers at Shein Law want to warn consumers of the risk of asbestos exposure in an unlikely place. A new study commissioned by the Environmental Working Group has identified asbestos in crayons and toy crime scene fingerprint kits. Asbestos, typically found in insulation in older buildings, can cause deadly respiratory conditions such as mesothelioma, a deadly type of cancer infecting the lining of the lungs and chest cavity.
Researchers tested toys manufactured in China and sold in the United States for the presence of asbestos. They discovered four brands of crayons, some of which featured images of characters such as Mickey Mouse, as well as two children’s crime scene kits that contained the microscopic fibers. While the levels of asbestos in these products was found to be minimal, experts agree that it is dangerous for children to inhale the fibers. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is no safe level of asbestos exposure, and children who endure prolonged exposure may be at even greater risk of respiratory damage.
Asbestos in Crayons Not Illegal
This is not the first time these products have raised concerns. Tests in 2000 and 2007 also found traces of asbestos in crayons. Many of these products are labeled as “non-toxic” and do not specify whether they contain asbestos. Federal regulators have known about the presence of asbestos in crayons since the initial study in 2000 but have not taken steps to outlaw this practice.
The United States currently does not have a comprehensive ban on asbestos, despite evidence of its danger. Some legislators are seeing the study as an opportunity to update the policies of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Senators Edward Markey of Massachusetts and Dick Durbin of Illinois have introduced legislation to increase transparency regarding the use of asbestos in consumer products. The CPSC has stated that it is taking the study’s findings seriously, but has not revealed a plan to address asbestos in children’s toys.
Parents are also calling for the removal of asbestos from crayons and other toys. Many are concerned that their children may already have been exposed to the deadly fibers. Conditions such as mesothelioma may have a latency period of 10-50 years, and the damaging effects of asbestos exposure may not be fully realized for many years. Once mesothelioma is diagnosed, it is very difficult to treat and there is currently no cure for this deadly disease.
New Jersey Mesothelioma Lawyers at Shein Law Advocate for Families Affected by Asbestos Exposure
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related disease, call New Jersey asbestos lawyers at Shein Law. Our knowledgeable, experienced legal team can help you determine who is responsible for your exposure and get you the compensation you deserve. With offices conveniently located in Pennsauken, New Jersey and Philadelphia, we help asbestos exposure victims throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Call us toll-free at 877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) or contact us online to review your case with a qualified mesothelioma lawyer.