Occupations At High Risk of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the only known risk factor for developing mesothelioma. The majority of individuals with this rare condition have been employed at jobs where they inhaled asbestos fibers through the production and use of this material. Although the danger of contracting mesothelioma is dependent upon the measure and duration of exposure, even low amounts of asbestos exposure can result in mesothelioma.
Family members of those exposed to asbestos are also at risk for mesothelioma and related conditions. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled after being transported home on the clothes, skin, and hair of workers. Workers at risk of asbestos exposure include factory workers, ship builders, construction workers, brake repair workers, insulation manufacturers and installers, and asbestos miners. Other occupations that pose a risk of asbestos exposure can be found below.
People with certain occupations are considered at higher risk for developing mesothelioma than others:
- Construction Workers
- Janitors
- Plumbers
- Electricians
- Firefighters
- Mechanics
- Insulator Installers
- Telephone Repair Workers
- Maintenance Personnel
Asbestos was so prevalent in the United States at one point that almost everyone has had some contact with asbestos. However, most mesothelioma victims are exposed to asbestos over a prolonged period of time. This level of exposure does not have to be very high. Medical professionals now know many victims developed mesothelioma through secondary exposure, known as paraoccupational asbestos exposure. This means that a person who had regular contact with an asbestos worker can be exposed to the lethal fibers by inhaling the residual particles stuck to the asbestos worker's clothing. In other words, the child or spouse of an asbestos worker is also at heightened risk for mesothelioma.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact a mesothelioma attorney at our firm today. We can review your case and discuss your legal options. |