The hazardous effects of asbestos exposure have been well-documented and were known many years before the material had reached peak popularity. Several industries continued to use asbestos despite research linking it to serious health problems, such as cancer and mesothelioma. Now, decades later, workers in those industries are still paying the price. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, as many as 1.3 million people are still exposed to asbestos every day.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is strong and heat-resistant. It’s those qualities that made it so appealing to numerous industries.
Some of the many diseases and health issues related to asbestos exposure include:
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
- Asbestosis
Perhaps the most dangerous thing about asbestos exposure is the latency period. Typically, a worker exposed to asbestos will not show signs of disease until up to 40 or 50 years later.
Which Jobs Have a Higher Risk of Asbestos Exposure?
Any employees who may have had repeated exposure are more at risk than others. Asbestos exposure is most commonly linked to workers in the following industries:
- Construction
- Shipyards
- Paper mills
- Mining
- Roofing
- Automotive repair
Your employer has a responsibility to keep you safe if you may be exposed to asbestos. This includes posting warning signs, providing protective gear and clothing, and properly training you in safely handling or avoiding asbestos. If you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you could be entitled money damages.
The New Jersey asbestos lawyers at Keefe Law Firm have successfully litigated asbestos cases for decades. Let us handle the legal and financial issues so that you have a few less things to worry about.
