Construction workers are among the most vulnerable groups when it comes to developing mesothelioma, an insidious cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. There are different types of mesothelioma, such as malignant mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma, and peritoneal mesothelioma, and many mesothelioma cases among construction workers are linked to occupational exposure. Historically, asbestos was widely used in the construction industry due to its durability and resistance to heat, making it a common component in everything from insulation and roofing materials to pipes and floor tiles. Construction workers often handled asbestos products and construction products, which were commonly used in building materials before regulations changed. Unfortunately, this puts countless construction workers at risk for significant asbestos exposure, often without their knowledge. Mesothelioma patients and their families may be eligible for compensation through legal action or asbestos trust funds.
In the wake of a mesothelioma diagnosis, it is essential to have an experienced legal advocate in your corner. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., our attorneys are dedicated to helping construction workers exposed to asbestos recover compensation for the full extent of their physical, emotional, and financial damages. Our founding attorney, Joe Williams, has never lost a mesothelioma case and can meet you at home to begin work on your claim. When you entrust your case to him, you can have peace of mind that a seasoned legal professional is handling your case. Many mesothelioma victims and mesothelioma patients have pursued asbestos lawsuits and claims through asbestos trust funds, often with the help of a mesothelioma lawyer.
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that develops in the protective lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The primary cause of this disease is exposure to asbestos fibers, which can be inhaled or ingested during work with asbestos-containing materials. Construction workers face a particularly high risk of developing mesothelioma due to frequent occupational asbestos exposure on job sites. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States, with a significant portion affecting construction workers exposed to asbestos. The risk of developing mesothelioma is much higher for those who have experienced occupational exposure, making it crucial for workers in the construction industry to understand the dangers of asbestos and take steps to protect themselves.
While construction is an inherently dangerous line of work, many construction workers are unaware of the less obvious hazards, such as asbestos exposure. Once airborne, asbestos fibers can quickly travel throughout construction sites, quickly putting numerous individuals at risk. Asbestos dust is a major hazard during construction work, especially when disturbing old buildings that contain asbestos.
This toxic dust has the ability to cling to workers’ clothes, hair, and tools, which means it often travels beyond the worksite and into homes, exposing families to secondary contact. This secondary exposure can be just as dangerous, potentially leading to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related conditions over time. The asbestos exposure construction workers face can also lead to asbestos related disease and other occupational diseases.
Some asbestos-containing materials construction workers may encounter on the job include the following:
Many of these building materials and construction products historically contained asbestos or still contain asbestos in older structures.
This is only a partial list, and there are many other products that contribute to asbestos exposure in the construction industry. Certain construction jobs and construction work, such as demolition and renovation, carry the highest risk or highest risks of exposure, particularly when working with raw asbestos or in old buildings. Occupational safety practices are essential to protect mesothelioma construction workers and reduce the incidence of mesothelioma in construction workers.
Studies on North Carolina construction workers have highlighted the increased risk of asbestos-related disease in that population. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to determine the cause of your exposure as well as the best path forward to pursue justice.
Within the construction industry, certain jobs carry a higher risk of asbestos exposure than others. Demolition workers, insulation installers, plumbers, roofers, and masonry workers are often in direct contact with asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, roofing materials, and pipes. These tasks can disturb asbestos fibers, releasing them into the air and increasing the risk of inhalation. Other high-risk occupations include sheet metal workers, pipefitters, and brick and stone masons, all of whom may handle or work near asbestos-containing products. Many construction workers in these roles have developed mesothelioma as a result of occupational exposure. To reduce the risk of asbestos exposure, it is essential for workers in these high-risk occupations to use protective gear and strictly follow safety procedures whenever they may encounter asbestos-containing materials.
Asbestos was once a staple in the construction industry, widely used in materials such as insulation, roofing materials, ceiling tiles, and pipes until the 1980s. These asbestos-containing materials are still present in many older buildings, posing ongoing health risks to construction workers who may disturb them during renovation, maintenance, or demolition projects. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or handled, they can release microscopic fibers into the air, which can be inhaled or ingested by workers. This exposure can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related diseases.
Construction workers should be vigilant when working in older buildings and take all necessary precautions to minimize asbestos exposure, as the risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses remains significant.
The dangers of asbestos exposure are not limited to construction workers themselves. Family members can also be at risk through secondary asbestos exposure, which occurs when asbestos fibers are carried home on a worker’s clothing, hair, or tools. This indirect exposure can be just as hazardous, potentially leading to mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases in loved ones. To protect their families, construction workers should take steps such as showering and changing clothes before leaving the worksite, and ensuring that contaminated gear is not brought into the home. By being proactive, workers can help prevent secondary exposure and reduce the risk of asbestos-related illnesses among family members.
Preventing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases starts with strict adherence to safety measures on the job. Construction workers should always use appropriate protective gear, such as respirators and gloves, when working with or near asbestos materials. Following established safety procedures—like containing asbestos-containing materials, using wet methods to suppress dust, and properly disposing of asbestos waste—can significantly reduce the risk of exposure. Training is also essential; workers must be educated about the risks of asbestos exposure and the correct ways to handle asbestos-containing materials safely.
Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment and ensure that all workers are aware of the potential for asbestos in older buildings. By staying informed and following safety protocols, construction workers protect themselves and their families from the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure, including the risk of developing mesothelioma.
After receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis, you may feel overwhelmed by medical bills as well as pain and emotional suffering. If you were exposed to asbestos while working in the construction industry, it is vital to seek compensation for the full scope of your losses. Some damages a skilled attorney may be able to help you recover include the following:
Compensation may also be available through asbestos trust funds established by companies responsible for asbestos exposure.
At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., our attorneys are committed to working with you to understand your diagnosis and how it impacts your life. We will evaluate your case from every angle to ensure you can seek the compensation you deserve.
Understanding your legal rights is crucial for construction workers who have been exposed to asbestos and are facing the repercussions of potential health issues like mesothelioma. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we recognize the significant challenges and health risks you face. Our dedicated team is committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your suffering and medical care.
Don’t delay in taking action. If you are a construction worker who has been exposed to asbestos, contact The Williams Law Firm, P.C. today at (855) 575-6376 to schedule your free consultation, or fill out our contact form.
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.
