Asbestos is a dangerous material that can cause serious health problems for individuals exposed to it. Because of its resistance to heat and fire, manufacturers and builders commonly used this material in a variety of products ranging from everything to car parts to building materials.
Even though this material has not been widely used for common manufactured products since the 1970s, it is still possible that you could face exposure to this dangerous material. Most often, Texas workers in certain industries face the highest risk of asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a known cause of a rare form of very serious and rare type of cancer.
Who is at risk for exposure?
Even though you may be well aware of the risk that asbestos exposure carries, there are some jobs that could place you in dangerous proximity to this material. In order to minimize the risk of this, employees should have access to certain safety equipment and training. While it is possible that people could face exposure in their workplaces or even in their homes, those who work in the following fields may face a higher risk of coming into contact with asbestos:
- Shipbuilding
- Mining
- Demolition
- Drywall installation
- Firefighting
- Auto repair
- Vehicle manufacturing
- Construction and building
While these workers could be more likely to face exposure at some point, in reality, asbestos exposure could happen to anyone. Individuals who become sick because they came into contact with this toxic substance could have the right to seek compensation from the liable parties.
What happens after exposure?
Many people do not know that their health is at risk because of asbestos until years after exposure. People can breathe in the tiny asbestos fibers, where they could remain in the lungs for years. Over time, fibers can inflame, causing difficulty breathing and eventually leading to a diagnosis of mesothelioma.
While commonly linked with lung cancer and respiratory diseases, asbestos can also increase the chance of cancer of the ovary, larynx and stomach.
The rights of victims
If you believe that your exposure to asbestos relates to your job or your job requirements, you would be wise to take quick action to protect your rights. It is possible that you have a rightful claim to compensation, but you have no time to lose in taking the appropriate legal steps. With guidance, you could obtain the restitution you deserve for your pain and suffering, as well as disease-related financial losses.