Industrial Worker Occupational Asbestos Exposure 

Industrial workers—from trade laborers to mechanics to welders—have a higher risk of being exposed to asbestos in the course of their work. These individuals must often work with and around a wide range of asbestos-containing materials, including various forms of insulation, machinery, pipes, wiring, and other products. In the past, these workers may even have been issued asbestos-contaminated personal protective gear, such as gloves and fire blankets containing asbestos-treated cotton. 

When asbestos-containing products are disturbed, they can release tiny, invisible asbestos fibers into the air. These fibers form a cloud of dust that can be inhaled or ingested. Once they have entered the body, asbestos fibers can become lodged in the linings surrounding the lungs, heart, abdomen, and other areas of the body. This can lead to inflammation and irritation and may ultimately cause cancer. 

Industrial workers may be exposed to asbestos in the following ways: 

• Installing, repairing, or replacing asbestos-containing materials 
• Maintaining products or equipment that contain asbestos 
• Operating machinery that contains asbestos 
• Using power tools or machinery to cut, drill, score, or grind asbestos-containing materials
• Wearing defective personal protective gear or gear that contains asbestos-treated materials
• Working in poorly ventilated areas in which asbestos was present 

These are just some of the many ways in which industrial workers can and do suffer occupational exposure to asbestos. 

The Risks of Asbestos Exposure for Industrial Workers 

Like anyone else exposed to asbestos, industrial workers who suffered occupational asbestos exposure face an increased risk of developing certain asbestos-related diseases, including various fatal forms of cancer, such as mesothelioma. In fact, a 2015 study published in the journal Occupational Environmental Medicine concluded that industrial workers are four times more likely to develop pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of asbestos-related cancer, than those who did not perform industrial work. 

Some of the health conditions and illnesses associated with asbestos exposure include: 

Because they face a heightened risk of occupational asbestos exposure, industrial workers also face an increased risk of developing one or more of these health conditions. If you or someone you love was diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness following a career as an industrial worker, you could be entitled to financial compensation for your damages. Reach out to the team at SWMW Law today to learn how our experienced attorneys can help.