Asbestos exposure continues to be a serious issue in many industries, causing an alarming number of deaths each year. According to a study published in the National Institute of Health, asbestos is responsible for an estimated 255,000 global deaths annually, with 233,000 of those being work-related. The World Health Organization also recognizes asbestos as a major contributor to occupational health risks worldwide.
If you or a loved one is suffering from any illness due to asbestos exposure, do not hesitate to contact The Williams Law Firm, P.C. for expert legal assistance. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of those affected by asbestos and helping them receive the justice they deserve.
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that became popular in a wide range of industries for their remarkable heat resistance and durability. For decades, asbestos-containing materials were used extensively in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, especially in insulation, roofing, and other building materials. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems, including asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
The risk of asbestos exposure remains a concern today, particularly in older buildings and job sites where asbestos-containing products were once common. Workers and even building occupants can still face significant risks if asbestos materials are disturbed, making awareness and prevention crucial for occupational safety.
The risk of asbestos exposure depends on several important factors. The type of asbestos fiber, how long and how intensely someone is exposed, and whether personal protective equipment is used all play a role in determining the level of danger. Construction workers, shipyard workers, and demolition workers are especially at risk because their jobs often involve disturbing asbestos-containing materials. Maintenance workers who repair or renovate older structures may also encounter asbestos dust. To reduce the risk of asbestos exposure, it is essential to use proper safety measures, such as wearing protective equipment and following strict protocols when handling or removing asbestos materials. Understanding these risk factors is key to protecting workers and preventing asbestos-related diseases.
The following jobs and occupations are among those with the highest asbestos risks due to occupational asbestos exposure. Workers in these professions face significant health hazards if proper precautions are not taken. The following are considered high risk occupations for asbestos exposure:
Construction workers often find themselves in environments where asbestos exposure is a significant risk, especially when renovating or demolishing older buildings. These sites may contain asbestos in insulation, roofing, flooring materials, and other construction materials. Without proper safety measures, such as wetting down materials to prevent dust or using vacuum devices with HEPA filters, workers can easily inhale harmful fibers.
Wearing personal protective equipment, including masks and gloves, is essential in minimizing the inhalation and contact with asbestos, keeping construction workers safer on the job. Asbestos regulations, such as those set by OSHA, are in place to protect workers in the construction industry by requiring exposure limits, protective equipment, and training programs. These measures are specifically designed to protect workers from asbestos exposure.
Firefighters put themselves in danger not just from flames but also from asbestos exposure. According to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer than the general population. When older buildings catch fire, asbestos used in their construction can release asbestos fibers into the air.
These brave individuals are at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers during firefighting and rescue operations, especially in structures built before asbestos use was regulated. Inhaling these fibers increases the risk of developing respiratory diseases and other asbestos related illnesses. The use of proper protective gear is crucial to minimize exposure and protect firefighters from these hazards.
Many shipyard workers are particularly vulnerable to asbestos exposure due to the historical use of asbestos in ship construction and repair. Asbestos was widely utilized for its fire-resistant properties in various parts of ships, including asbestos insulation, gaskets, and cables.
Asbestos workers in shipyards, especially those involved in the building, maintenance, or dismantling of ships, may encounter asbestos-containing materials, putting them at increased risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. Many shipyard workers face a significant risk of occupational exposure, which is a key concern in these environments.
Training on the identification and safe handling of asbestos materials can significantly help in reducing the exposure risk for shipyard workers and ensuring their safety while on the job.
Mechanics often work with older vehicle parts that may contain asbestos products, especially in brake pads and clutches, where chrysotile asbestos was commonly used. This puts them at risk of workplace asbestos exposure when they perform repairs or maintenance tasks that disturb these parts, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Prolonged workplace asbestos exposure can cause some mechanics to develop mesothelioma due to the inhalation of these fibers. Adopting safety practices, like using vacuum systems with proper filtration and never blowing out dust with compressed air, can help limit their exposure.
Keeping the workspace well-ventilated and attending regular training on asbestos safety can further protect mechanics from the dangers of asbestos inhalation while on the job.
Industrial workers—including factory workers, power plant workers, and oil refinery workers—often come into contact with asbestos in older machinery, equipment, and building materials. These environments frequently contained asbestos, especially in insulation materials, pipe insulation, and other components, increasing exposure risks. Asbestos was commonly found in materials that contained asbestos, making maintenance, repair, or replacement of aged industrial components a prime source of asbestos fiber release.
These workers face a significant risk of developing asbestos related disease due to occupational exposure. Ensuring that these workers are equipped with the right protective clothing and respiratory gear is key to minimizing their exposure. Implementing strict safety protocols and conducting regular checks for asbestos can help keep industrial workers safe from the dangers of asbestos exposure, preserving their health and well-being.
Secondary exposure to asbestos occurs when workers unintentionally bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin, or hair, putting their loved ones at risk. This is a particular concern for construction workers, shipyard workers, and others who are frequently exposed to asbestos-containing materials on the job. Family members of these workers can develop asbestos-related diseases after repeated exposure to asbestos fibers brought into the home environment. To minimize these exposure risks, it is important for workers to change clothes and shower before leaving the job site, and to follow decontamination procedures recommended for those exposed to asbestos. Preventing secondary exposure is a vital step in protecting not just workers, but also their families from the dangers of asbestos.
Preventing asbestos exposure starts with awareness and the right safety practices. Workers who may encounter asbestos-containing materials should always use personal protective equipment, such as respirators, gloves, and protective clothing, to reduce the risk of inhaling or coming into contact with asbestos fibers. Employers have a responsibility to provide training on asbestos safety and to enforce proper safety measures whenever asbestos materials are present. Regular health screenings and monitoring can help detect asbestos-related diseases early, improving outcomes for those affected. By following these precautions and using the right protective equipment, workers can significantly lower their risk of asbestos exposure and protect themselves from serious health risks.
If you or a loved one is experiencing health issues because of asbestos exposure, it’s critical to get the right legal support. The Williams Law Firm, P.C., specializes in assisting victims of asbestos-related diseases, including malignant mesothelioma and mesothelioma patients, boasting an unbeatable record of never losing a mesothelioma case. Our team is dedicated to fighting for the compensation and justice you deserve, whether you are developing mesothelioma or suffering from other asbestos-related diseases. We treat each case as our cause, and we have never lost a mesothelioma case.
Asbestos is recognized as a toxic material, and its use and exposure are regulated by agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and health administration organizations to protect public health. Exposure to asbestos has also been linked to ovarian cancer.
Don’t wait to seek help. Reach out to us today by calling (855) 575-6376 or filling out our contact form. Let our experienced asbestos exposure lawyers provide the guidance and advocacy you need during this challenging time.
As the founding partner of Williams Law Firm, Joseph P. Williams has dedicated over 30 years to representing mesothelioma victims and their families. His firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for those affected by asbestos exposure, offering personalized, aggressive legal advocacy. Based in New York, Williams Law Firm provides free consultations and handles cases nationwide.
