Louisiana Contractors License Practice Exam

Which health risk is associated with asbestos?

1. Skin irritation from direct contact

2. Respiratory diseases from inhalation

3. Increased risk of allergic reactions

4. Intoxication from skin absorption

The correct answer is: Respiratory diseases from inhalation

The health risk associated with asbestos that is most critical is respiratory diseases from inhalation. When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can become airborne and be inhaled. These tiny fibers can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to serious health issues over time, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is a rare and aggressive type of cancer primarily associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos is particularly dangerous because it can remain in the environment for a long time and is often undetectable without specialized equipment. People at high risk include construction workers, shipyard workers, and others who work in environments where asbestos products were used or disturbed. While skin irritation, allergic reactions, and intoxication from skin absorption might be concerns in other contexts, they are not the primary health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Understanding the respiratory risks is crucial for anyone working in or around older buildings where asbestos may be present, as it informs necessary safety protocols and personal protective equipment requirements.