If you have been exposed to asbestos at work, you may be wondering what the health risks are. Asbestos is a dangerous mineral that can cause serious health problems if it is inhaled. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of asbestos exposure and how to claim work comp benefits if you become ill because of it. We will also discuss the jobs that have the greatest risk of exposure and how to reduce your risk of exposure.
What is asbestos and how can it harm you?
Asbestos is a mineral that was once commonly used in the construction industry. It can still be found in the walls of some buildings, as it was used as insulation in many homes before it was banned. Asbestos is made up of tiny fibbers that can easily become airborne and be inhaled. When these fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious health problems. Depending on the level of exposure, it can lead to severe conditions, including:
- Asbestosis – This is a chronic lung disease that occurs after long-term exposure to asbestos. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing.
- Lung cancer: The symptoms of lung cancer include coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
- Laryngeal cancer – This is cancer that affects the voice box.
- Mesothelioma: This is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and abdomen. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
- Pleural effusion – This is a build-up of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. Symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain.
- Pleural thickening – This is a thickening of the lining of the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain.
If you have been exposed to asbestos at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help you pay for medical bills and lost wages. If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing serious health problems.
Which groups of workers are at the greatest risk of asbestosis and related conditions?
Some of the most common jobs that involve asbestos exposure are:
- Construction workers
- Shipyard workers
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Workers in the insulation industry
These are just a few of the many jobs that put workers at risk for asbestos exposure. If you work in one of these industries, it is important to be aware of the dangers of asbestos and take steps to protect yourself.
How can you reduce your risk of exposure to asbestos?
There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, make sure to wear proper protective gear. This includes a respirator and protective clothing. If you are working with asbestos-containing materials, make sure to wet them down before you start working with them to prevent the release of fibbers into the air. When you are finished working with asbestos-containing materials, make sure to clean up thoroughly and wash your clothes before you leave the work area.
If you have been exposed to asbestos at work, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing serious health problems. You should also contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.
Workers who are exposed to asbestos on the job are at risk for developing serious health problems. If you have been exposed to asbestos, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. An experienced occupational injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.
