Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber. For decades, this material was widely used in many industries for its heat-resistant properties. It can be found in things ranging from fire-retardant home insulation to shipbuilding materials. However, the serious health risks posed by this mineral didn’t become apparent until years later, resulting in countless cases of serious asbestos-related sicknesses in the following decades.
Though researchers now understand the health risks of asbestos, it is still present in older buildings and infrastructure. If you or a loved one are suffering health consequences from occupational asbestos exposure, do not hesitate to reach out to an attorney. Contact Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP, today to schedule your free consultation.
Occupations with a High Risk of Asbestos Exposure
Again, asbestos was widely used in various industries for decades. Though there have been significant efforts to remove this harmful substance from homes and workplaces, much of it is still present. Workers at high risk of exposure include:
- Construction workers – Various materials used in the construction industry often contain asbestos, including insulation, roofing, and masonry, leaving construction workers at a high risk of asbestos exposure.
- Military veterans – Through the 1980s, asbestos was used in all sorts of military applications, from infrastructure to naval vessels. Sadly, veterans of the U.S. Navy are at particularly high risk of exposure.
- Shipbuilders and maritime workers – Shipyards and marine vessels often feature asbestos-containing components and equipment. Again, its fire-retardant properties made it popular in these settings before the serious health consequences of asbestos exposure were well understood.
- Miners – Though asbestos mining has largely ceased in the U.S., workers who previously helped extract this mineral from the earth can still face long-term health consequences many years later.
- Firefighters – Asbestos is still widely present in older buildings. Firefighters battling blazes in these spaces are at very high risk of exposure.
- Factory workers – Asbestos was widely used in manufacturing, both in factories and the products they produce, placing workers at high risk of exposure.
- Power plant workers – Insulation materials used in power plants often contain asbestos.
- Refinery workers – Asbestos was often used in clothing and safety gear to protect workers from flames and other heat exposure. Wearing this gear comes with the risk of inhaling asbestos fibers.
- Automotive mechanics – Asbestos was often used in brake pad linings and clutch pads, placing mechanics who work on these vehicle parts, especially in older vehicles, at risk of exposure.
- Textile workers – Some fabrics, particularly those designed for heat resistance and insulation, contain asbestos fibers. Workers who manufactured these textiles may have been exposed.
- Railroad workers – Many older trains and train stations feature asbestos-containing materials and infrastructure.
- Insulation installers – Again, many kinds of insulation historically contained asbestos. Anyone who installed these kinds of insulation may have inhaled asbestos fibers and are now at risk of developing serious illnesses.
Why Asbestos Is a Concern at Work?
Though its health risks were unknown in the past, asbestos is now understood to be extremely dangerous. For decades, asbestos was widely used for its heat-resistant properties, placing employees at a high risk of developing various sicknesses.
Some diseases, like asbestosis and pleural disease, are non-cancerous. Asbestosis refers to the scarring of lung tissue caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. This condition hinders carbon dioxide and oxygen from passing through the lungs, which results in difficulty breathing. By contrast, pleural diseases cause the membrane lining the outside of the lungs and inside the chest cavity to thicken, negatively impacting lung function and causing sharp chest pain.
In some cases, individuals exposed to asbestos also develop certain cancers, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer impacting the mesothelium, a thin membrane lining the internal organs, including the chest cavity, the abdominal cavity, and the heart. By contrast, lung cancer manifests within the lungs themselves. Asbestos exposure has also been linked to cancer in the larynx, ovaries, pharynx, stomach, and colon.
The Disproportionate Impact on Industrial Workers
Every year, approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the U.S. About 90 percent of these cases stem from asbestos-related exposure, with occupational exposure being the main culprit. Most asbestos-related diseases affect workers in certain high-risk workplaces, including factories, mines, construction sites, and industrial yards. The disproportionate impact on these workers is largely due to the continued use of asbestos in older equipment and infrastructure.
Recognizing and Reducing Risks of Asbestos Exposure at Work
Various authorities strictly regulate asbestos use to promote worker safety, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Recognizing risks and implementing preventative measures in accordance with regulatory guidelines is essential.
It is also important that workers wear protective equipment, especially respiratory protection, to avoid inhaling asbestos fibers. Further, employers should ensure proper training and worker awareness so individuals at risk of exposure can take appropriate precautions when handling asbestos-containing products.
Routine health checkups are also a good idea for folks working in industries with a higher risk of asbestos exposure. Regular checkups and screenings can help identify early signs and symptoms of asbestos-related diseases. Remember, early detection greatly increases the odds of survival.
What are My Legal Options When a Loved One Dies Due to an Asbestos-Related Disease?
Losing someone near and dear to your heart because of an asbestos-related disease is a heart-wrenching experience, and the emotional and psychological toll on surviving loved ones can be devastating. Unfortunately, the tragedy of losing a loved one in this way is often only part of the struggle surviving family members face.
Of course, no amount of money can ever make up for the value of life and family. That said, the financial impact of losing a member of your family to an asbestos-related sickness can also quickly become a burden. From lost income and financial support to funeral and burial expenses, your family may struggle to get by, all while suffering the heavy emotional toll of your loved one’s passing.
If you are facing this situation, we want you to know that you do not have to face it alone. The compassionate legal team at Meirowitz & Wasserberg is here to help. Though we cannot undo the tragedy of your loss, our knowledgeable attorneys can help you secure compensation for the negligent actions that caused your loved one’s asbestos-related sickness.
Our skilled personal injury lawyers can thoroughly investigate your case and ensure you understand your full legal rights and options. We have extensive experience handling asbestos exposure claims. In fact, partner Daniel Wasserberg has been recognized as one of “The Top 10 Asbestos Lawyers” by The National Trial Lawyers.
Why Hire a Lawyer to Handle Your Work-Related Asbestos Lawsuit?
After receiving an asbestos-related diagnosis, filing a lawsuit may be the last thing on your mind. However, it is crucial to file your claim before the deadline set by the statute of limitations passes. The best way to ensure you do not miss the deadline is by working with an experienced attorney.
Further, filing a work-related asbestos lawsuit can be very complex. Why? Because symptoms of many asbestos-related sicknesses often do not show for years and even decades. A skilled lawyer can help you by digging up the information necessary to prove that your exposure years ago caused your present medical condition. They can also make sure you know your full legal rights and options.
Occupational Asbestos Exposure FAQs
What is the Latency Period for Asbestos-Related Diseases?
Latency periods for asbestos-related diseases vary. For example, one study found that mesothelioma has a latency period of 33.7 years and that lung cancer has a latency period of 40.1 years.
Can I Be Exposed to Asbestos at Home or in Public Buildings?
It’s possible to be exposed to asbestos in your home or a public building, especially if they are older. However, the presence of asbestos isn’t always hazardous. The risk rises when the asbestos-containing material is in poor condition or disturbed, which may cause it to release dangerous asbestos fibers.
Does a Single Exposure Put Me at Risk of Developing an Asbestos-Related Disease?
No amount of asbestos exposure is safe. That said, the risk goes up the more you are exposed. As a rule of thumb, remember that any amount of asbestos exposure and inhalation increases the risk of developing serious illnesses down the road. Avoid it.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Exposed to Asbestos at Work?
If you think you were exposed to asbestos at work, wash your body and clothes as soon as possible, as this will help minimize the spread. After washing yourself thoroughly, talk to your employer about your concerns. Discuss the potential exposure with your doctor, and always seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing.
Are There Any Treatments or Cures for Asbestos-Related Diseases?
Unfortunately, no known treatment can reverse asbestos damage or cure many of the diseases it causes. That is why you should avoid exposure at all costs. However, patients diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease can take steps to slow its progression and alleviate symptoms.
How Can I Find Out if a Product Contains Asbestos?
For the most part, it is difficult to tell whether a product or material contains asbestos simply by looking at it. Some products are labeled, especially newer ones, making it easy to determine whether they contain asbestos. However, it can be difficult to detect in older products, especially those installed in buildings and infrastructure decades ago.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Renovating an Old Building?
The Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of asbestos in most products. However, older buildings may still contain asbestos, so it’s important to be careful when renovating them. Ideally, have a qualified professional take a sample of potential asbestos-containing materials before starting. If asbestos is found, it’s best to leave the removal process to professionals.
Can I Get Tested for Asbestos-Related Diseases?
Testing for asbestos-related diseases can be tricky, as symptoms may present similarly to other unrelated respiratory conditions. That said, if you suspect you have been exposed to asbestos and want to be tested, your doctor can help you figure out your options.
Contact Meirowitz & Wasserberg to Talk About Your Asbestos Exposure Today
Asbestos was widely used in homes and workplaces throughout the United States for decades. Over time, however, it was discovered that the fibers released by this heat-resistant mineral can cause serious illness, including various forms of cancer. Today, millions of people continue to suffer the effects of asbestos exposure. Often, the illnesses they develop are fatal.
Our knowledgeable asbestos lawyers are dedicated to helping affected families and victims take legal action and hold responsible parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
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Samuel Meirowitz
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Daniel Wasserberg
Founding Partner
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Kush Shukla
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Bonnie Steinwolf
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Jason Yampolsky
Associate
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Melissa Ryan Reitberg
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Clark Rosengarten
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Danny Kraft
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About The Author
Daniel Wasserberg
Founding Partner
Daniel Wasserberg, a founding partner of Meirowitz & Wasserberg, is a Best Lawyers-recognized and Super Lawyers-rated mesothelioma attorney with over 20 years of experience. Named a Top 100 Trial Lawyer and Top 10 Asbestos-Mesothelioma Lawyer, he leads the firm's national asbestos practice.
