Asbestos has almost become a catchphrase for the risks that many industrial workers and builders faced for much of the 20th century. The material has been in use since ancient history as an insulator against flame, among other advantages. Although warnings about the material’s dangers existed in the 1930s, asbestos was not regulated in the United States until the 1970s.
Experts have estimated millions of workers in many industries were exposed to asbestos, which has been connected to lung cancer and other serious ailments of the lungs, heart and the lining around these organs. Many of these workers and their survivors have a case for financial compensation after expensive health care or loss of income due to illness.
Construction workers on the land and in shipyards were especially at risk between 1940 and 1980. Asbestos was present in thousands of constructions products, including insulators and tiles. Since the material is most hazardous to health in a fibrous or dusty form, demolition workers and renovation crews were at the highest risk.
Firefighters, mechanics, machinists and even miners may have been exposed to sufficient asbestos to cause lung problems or other issues. Miners may have encountered natural deposits of asbestos in talc, vermiculite and other similar minerals used on a wide scale for industrial or hygienic purposes.
Workers who believe their health problems are connected to asbestos may bring a lawsuit in civil court against the firm responsible for the exposure. Even bankrupt or defunct companies may be liable through the parties that inherited their liabilities. An attorney can help address these questions and work towards the compensation and reimbursement that workers and their families deserve.