Occupational Asbestos Exposure
The shadow of a forgotten danger lingers in America’s workplaces. Asbestos, once heralded for its insulating and fire-resistant properties, now casts a long, deadly shadow. Millions of workers across generations were exposed to this silent killer, unaware of the insidious threat lurking in insulation, building materials, and countless everyday products. Now, decades later, the chilling legacy of asbestos is manifesting in the form of mesothelioma, a devastating cancer with no cure. If you or a loved one is suffering due to occupational asbestos exposure, contact the mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law.
Last Updated
August 24, 2024
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Legally Edited and Fact-Checked by:
Daniel L. Braverman, Founding Attorney, Braver Law
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"If you have lung cancer or mesothelioma, don’t assume that you do not have a case. Go ahead and contact Braver Law. They know exactly what needs to be done to win your case."
- Osvaldo P , Miami, FL
At Braver Law, our mesothelioma lawyers stand with those who suffer from this preventable tragedy. We are mesothelioma lawyers who fight relentlessly for the rights of workers and their families impacted by occupational asbestos exposure. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial devastation mesothelioma brings, and we are devoted to securing the compensation you deserve.
High Risk Jobs and Industries
Due to its versatile properties, asbestos was used across many major industries, exposing workers in various occupations to this hazardous material. Some of the most common jobs with asbestos exposure risks included:
- Boilermakers
- Insulators
- Pipefitters
- Welders
- Electricians
- Sheetmetal workers
- Steamfitters
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Construction laborers
- Shipyard workers
- Machinists
- Power plant operators
- Refinery workers
- Factory assembly line workers
- Auto mechanics
- Maintenance mechanics
- Millwrights
- Furnace installers and repairmen
- Crane operators
These occupations span across major industries like shipbuilding, construction, automotive, power generation, oil refining, and manufacturing, where asbestos use was prevalent. Workers in these jobs frequently handled asbestos-containing materials or worked in environments with high levels of asbestos dust, placing them at risk of developing serious health issues like mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.
Many Other Jobs at Risk of Occupational Asbestos Exposure:
The insidious nature of asbestos meant its reach extended far beyond these high-risk professions. Countless other workers across various industries faced potential exposure, including:
- Carpenters: Insulation in walls and ceilings often contained asbestos, putting carpenters at risk during renovations and demolitions.
- Boilermakers: Building and repairing boilers frequently involved contact with asbestos-containing materials.
- Cabinet makers: Asbestos was used in adhesives and insulation for cabinets, exposing cabinet makers and installers.
- Aircraft mechanics: Older aircraft were riddled with asbestos, putting mechanics at risk during maintenance and repair.
- Electricians: Asbestos fireproofing and cabling insulation exposed electricians to potential inhalation of fibers.
- Firefighters: Older fire stations and protective gear often contained asbestos, putting firefighters at risk during blazes and training exercises.
- Custodial & Maintenance workers: Cleaning and maintaining buildings with asbestos-containing materials exposed countless janitorial and maintenance workers.
No job was truly safe from asbestos exposure. Even those who didn't work directly with the material could be exposed through secondary contact, carrying asbestos fibers home on work clothes and equipment. This put families, especially spouses and children, at risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. If you or a loved one is suffering due to occupational asbestos exposure, contact the mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law.
Braver Law: Fighting for Every Victim of Mesothelioma
At Braver Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by victims of occupational asbestos exposure and their families. We help our clients navigate the complexities of mesothelioma cases and holding negligent companies accountable. Our mesothelioma lawyers will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, including:
- Medical expenses: We fight for coverage of past and future medical costs associated with your mesothelioma treatment.
- Lost wages: We seek compensation for lost income due to your illness and treatment.
- Pain and suffering: We hold responsible parties accountable for the physical and emotional pain you have endured.
- Wrongful death benefits: We advocate for families who have lost loved ones to mesothelioma.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and the legal options available to you. We are committed to fighting for justice and providing compassionate support throughout your journey. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don't hesitate to contact Braver Law’s mesothelioma lawyers. You are not alone. We will stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Military Service Members: Asbestos Exposure During Duty
The brave men and women who donned the nation's uniform deserve our deepest respect and gratitude. Unfortunately, for many veterans, that service came at a hidden cost: exposure to asbestos. From shipbuilding and aircraft maintenance to construction and fireproofing in military bases, and navy service on ships countless service members were unknowingly put at risk by the widespread use of this deadly material.
Decades later, these heroes are facing the devastating consequences of occupational asbestos exposure in the form of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other serious respiratory illnesses. If you served our country and believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law are here to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Iron and Steel Workers
The backbone of American industry, metal workers played a crucial role in building our nation's infrastructure. Yet, countless welders, ironworkers, and other metal trades professionals were exposed to asbestos in steel mills, shipyards, factories, and construction sites. Welding on asbestos-containing panels, cutting through insulation, and working in environments riddled with dust all contributed to an invisible threat that now manifests as mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
At Braver Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by metal workers suffering from occupational asbestos exposure. Our mesothelioma lawyers have a proven track record of securing compensation for these hard-working individuals, ensuring they receive the financial support they need during this difficult time. If you or a loved one is suffering due to occupational asbestos exposure, contact the mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law.
Manufacturing Workers
The industrial revolution that fueled our nation's growth also unleashed a silent killer: asbestos. From textile mills and power plants to chemical factories and auto plants, countless manufacturing workers faced daily exposure to asbestos in everything from insulation and gaskets to adhesives and brake linings. Now, decades later, these individuals are bearing the brunt of this exposure in the form of mesothelioma and other debilitating illnesses.
Braver Law stands with manufacturing workers and their families. Our mesothelioma lawyers are relentless advocates for those impacted by occupational asbestos exposure. We fight to secure proper compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, ensuring workers and their families are not left to face this burden alone.
Plumbers, Boilermakers, and Pipefitters
The intricate network of pipes that keeps our nation functioning often held a hidden danger for those who installed and maintained them. Plumbers, boilermakers, and pipefitters were frequently exposed to asbestos in insulation, gaskets, and pipe coverings. Cutting through pipes, dismantling old systems, and working in confined spaces with asbestos dust put countless professionals at risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
The mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law understand the physical and emotional toll of occupational asbestos exposure for plumbers and pipefitters. We are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages, so you can focus on your health and recovery.
Shipyard Workers
From the mighty battleships of World War II to the commercial vessels that fuel global trade, American shipyards were once bustling hives of activity. However, for those who built and repaired these vessels, the risk of asbestos exposure was omnipresent. Insulation, flooring, and fireproofing materials throughout ships were often laden with asbestos, putting shipyard workers at high risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
If you or a loved one worked in a shipyard and now suffer from mesothelioma, mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law are here to fight for your justice. We have extensive experience navigating the complexities of shipyard asbestos exposure cases and holding negligent companies accountable. We will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Railroad Workers
The ironclad arteries of American transportation, our nation's railways, were built and maintained by countless dedicated railroad workers. Unfortunately, many of these individuals faced exposure to asbestos in locomotives, insulation materials, and trackside structures. Decades later, these former railroad workers are facing the devastating consequences of this exposure in the form of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
Railroad workers, the backbone of America's transportation system, were often exposed to asbestos in locomotives, insulation materials, and trackside structures. The widespread use of asbestos in the railroad industry, particularly during the mid-20th century, has led to devastating health consequences for many former railroad employees. Asbestos exposure in this industry was pervasive, yet often unnoticed until decades later when diseases like mesothelioma began to surface.
For railroad workers diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) provides a unique legal pathway to seek compensation. Unlike other workers who must rely on standard workers' compensation systems, railroad workers can file lawsuits under FELA, which allows them to sue their employers for negligence related to asbestos exposure. This legal option can lead to more substantial compensation, covering not only medical expenses but also lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Navigating a FELA claim requires specialized legal expertise, particularly in establishing the connection between asbestos exposure and the subsequent development of mesothelioma. At Braver Law, our asbestos lawyers are experienced in handling FELA claims, ensuring that railroad workers receive the justice and compensation they deserve. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the financial support needed during this challenging time.
If you or a loved one is a railroad worker diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact us today to explore your legal options under FELA. Our team is ready to stand by your side, providing the support and expertise necessary to pursue a successful claim.
Welders
The skilled hands of welders have shaped our world, from towering skyscrapers to intricate automotive parts. However, for many welders, the flames of their craft also illuminated a hidden danger: asbestos. Welding on asbestos-containing materials, working in environments with asbestos dust, and wearing protective gear often riddled with the fiber all contributed to a high risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Now, these skilled professionals face the physical and emotional toll of these illnesses, struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and the uncertainty of their future.
At Braver Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by welders suffering from occupational asbestos exposure. Our mesothelioma lawyers have a proven track record of securing compensation for these hardworking individuals, ensuring they receive the financial support they need during this difficult time. We will fight for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages, so you can focus on your health and recovery.
Family Members of Workers in Asbestos Exposure Jobs
The tragic legacy of occupational asbestos exposure often extends beyond the workers themselves. Spouses, children, and other family members were unknowingly exposed to asbestos dust carried home on clothes, hair, and equipment. This secondary exposure can also lead to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, leaving families devastated and facing a multitude of challenges.
Mesothelioma lawyers at Braver Law understand the unique needs of families impacted by occupational asbestos exposure. We fight for the rights of spouses who have lost loved ones to mesothelioma, seeking wrongful death compensation to cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. We also advocate for children and other family members who have developed asbestos-related illnesses, ensuring they receive proper medical care and financial support.
Legal Compensation for Occupational Asbestos Exposure: Holding the Negligent Accountable
Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases are preventable tragedies. Companies knew of the dangers of asbestos but prioritized profits over the health and safety of workers. At Braver Law, we hold these negligent companies accountable for their actions. Our mesothelioma lawyers have a proven track record of securing significant compensation for victims of occupational asbestos exposure, including:
- Medical Expenses: We fight for coverage of past and future medical costs associated with your treatment for mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.
- Lost Wages: We seek compensation for lost income due to your illness and treatment, ensuring you receive financial support during this difficult time.
- Pain and Suffering: We hold responsible parties accountable for the physical and emotional pain you have endured as a result of your asbestos exposure.
- Wrongful Death Benefits: If you have lost a loved one to mesothelioma, we advocate for you and your family to receive wrongful death benefits that cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
We understand that no amount of money can erase the pain and suffering caused by mesothelioma. However, legal compensation can provide much-needed financial security and a sense of justice for victims and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions about Asbestos and Cancer
What jobs put me at risk for mesothelioma?
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Many occupations across various industries historically involved working with asbestos-containing materials. If you worked in construction, served in the Navy, were a mechanic, or worked at industrial sites, shipyards, refineries, power plants, steel mills, or on the railroad, you may be among the groups with known high exposure risks. Additionally, individuals who worked in older buildings or renovated older homes could have been exposed through secondary contact.
How long does it take for asbestos exposure to cause harm?
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Unfortunately, there's no "safe" level of asbestos exposure. The time it takes for harm to manifest can vary greatly, from 10-40 years, and depends on factors like the amount and duration of exposure, individual susceptibility, and type of asbestos fiber inhaled.
Could I have been exposed through a family member's work?
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Secondary exposure to asbestos fibers carried home on clothes, hair, or equipment is possible. If you suspect you may have been exposed this way, discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional experienced in asbestos-related diseases is crucial.
I worked with asbestos years ago. Should I be worried?
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While the risk of developing mesothelioma increases with the amount and duration of exposure, even past exposure, even brief, can raise your risk. Monitoring for symptoms and undergoing regular checkups with your doctor is vital.
What are the early signs of mesothelioma?
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Symptoms like shortness of breath, dry cough, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss can be early indicators of mesothelioma. However, these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions, making early diagnosis challenging.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
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Diagnosis involves a combination of imaging tests like chest X-rays or CT scans, biopsy procedures to analyze tissue samples, and fluid analysis in some cases. Early diagnosis plays a significant role in determining treatment options and maximizing potential outcomes.
Is there a cure for mesothelioma?
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While there's no definitive cure for mesothelioma, advancements in treatment offer hope. Depending on the stage and type of mesothelioma, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or palliative care.
Can the lungs clear asbestos?
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Unfortunately, the lungs cannot completely clear inhaled asbestos fibers. However, the body can slowly break down some types of asbestos fibers over time.
Can I file a lawsuit if I have mesothelioma from occupational exposure?
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If you developed mesothelioma due to occupational exposure to asbestos, you may have legal recourse to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Consulting with an experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you understand your legal options and rights.
What types of compensation can I receive?
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Depending on the specifics of your case, potential compensation can cover medical expenses related to your mesothelioma treatment, lost wages due to your illness, pain and suffering damages, and in some cases, wrongful death benefits for families who have lost loved ones to mesothelioma.
How long does it take to settle a mesothelioma lawsuit?
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The timeframe for resolving a mesothelioma lawsuit can vary significantly depending on factors like the complexity of the case, the defendant's cooperation, and willingness to settle. While some cases can be resolved in months, others may require a longer timeframe.
Can I afford a mesothelioma lawyer?
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Many mesothelioma law firms offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning you won't pay any fees unless they win your case. This ensures access to legal representation regardless of your financial situation.
Where can I find more information about mesothelioma?
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Several reputable organizations offer comprehensive information and resources on mesothelioma, including the Mesothelioma Foundation of America, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute.