A cancer causing material, asbestos is extremely hazardous and dangerous to inhale. In the past and today many occupations are associated with asbestos and many people have been exposed during work. Originally, in the 1960s and 1970s asbestos was used in mining. Decades later these exposures are manifesting in asbestos related cancers, such as mesothelioma. Between 1940 and 1979 about 27 million workers were exposed to asbestos containing materials and are now facing the terrible consequences. These occupations include, but are not limited to, insulators, plumbers, auto mechanics, building inspectors, bricklayers, drywallers, electricians, demolition workers, furnace workers, floor covering workers, glaziers, grinders, hod carriers, insulators, laborers, iron workers, pipe fitters, plasterers, plumbers, roofers, operating engineers, welders, aircraft mechanics and more. Common industries or businesses that used asbestos include automotive repair shops, construction companies, mining companies, steel mills, power plants, oil refineries and more.
Today, most exposures to asbestos occur during the removal, maintenance, reparation, or renovation of previously installed asbestos containing materials. About 1.3 million workers who work in industries involving these activities are exposed to asbestos. In addition, each year, over 125 million people are exposed to asbestos during work. Firefighters are also at a high risk of exposure due to fighting fires in homes built before 1980 that still contain asbestos. Based on studies, firefighters are two times more likely than the rest of the population to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. HVAC workers are also at a high risk of exposure, because asbestos was used in insulation and gaskets that are handled by these workers. Additionally, teachers are at risk of being exposed to asbestos as it was used in a lot of schools that were built before 1980. Eventually, the asbestos fibers are released and could be inhaled by teachers.
Not only can a person be exposed to asbestos by directly breathing it in, someone can also be exposed second-hand. If asbestos fibers are on the clothing of someone who has worked or who is currently working in one of the previously mentioned industries, these fibers can be inhaled by a loved one. This is how wives, husbands, children and siblings of those who have worked in these industries have become diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases.
At the Halpern Law Firm, we help victims of Mesothelioma. If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos through any of the previously mentioned occupations and is a victim of mesothelioma call us today. With thousands of clients and successful verdicts and settlements we are here to help! Call at 800-505-6000.
Sources:
https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/csem/asbestos/who_is_at_risk.html
https://www.mesothelioma.com/asbestos-exposure/occupations/
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