Industries with High Risk of Exposure to Asbestos

Asbestos is a durable mineral that was widely used in construction until about the mid-1970s. The substance is heat and fire resistant and is versatile enough that it can be woven into fabrics. It is also resistant to various types of chemicals. For years, it was hailed as a miracle mineral until doctors and scientists discovered the harmful effects that it has on those who work with the substance.

Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma, which is a fatal cancer. Mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs. It can also affect the tissue that lines the stomach, heart and other vital organs. The lungs are by far the most common organ affected, however. There is no cure for mesothelioma, but sometimes doctors can catch it in time to remove tumors and take other remedial action.

Certain industries suffered more exposure to this dangerous substance than others. Those that dealt with insulation were especially prone to exposure. Altering asbestos insulation in any way can release the asbestos particles into the air. They can then be inhaled by anyone in the area. That meant that even if you did not directly work with asbestos, you might have been exposed without realizing it.

The following industries saw increased exposure to asbestos because of its heavy use.

• Shipbuilding – Asbestos was often used in pipe insulation.
• Military – Use was common in airplanes, ships, barracks and tanks.
• Construction – Because of the heavy use of asbestos in insulation, construction workers were particularly prone to asbestos exposure.
• Firefighting – Most buildings had asbestos in the walls at one time. If a building caught fire, the asbestos particles were released into the air, leading to exposure.
• Railroad – Pipe insulation on trains also regularly used asbestos, and boxcars were often insulated with the material, causing exposure when repairing or altering cars.
• Manufacturing/Factories – Asbestos was often mixed with other types of products, which exposed workers directly.

If you or someone you love has developed mesothelioma and you think it is related to asbestos exposure, you may have legal options. Call PSKD’s Milwaukee mesothelioma lawyers for more information about your legal options.

Call 414-333-3333  or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.