Shipbuilders, construction workers at high risk for mesothelioma

by | Dec 19, 2019 | mesothelioma

As most people know these days, being exposed to asbestos can cause serious health issues. Of course, in the past, this information was not as well known, and as a result, many people are now facing diagnoses of mesothelioma and other severe health problems as a result of their working around this material. In fact, if Louisiana residents worked in certain occupations, they may be at higher risk than others.

One occupation that resulted in exposure to asbestos is shipbuilding. Because of the fire-retardant nature of asbestos, it was used in building ships and insulating pipes on those ships. Though large commercial and naval vessels are more likely to have used asbestos, even recreational boats can have this material. Unfortunately for shipbuilders, breathing in asbestos fibers was not unlikely.

Construction workers also face a significant risk of mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure. The material was used for decades and was put in spackling, concrete mixtures, shingles, tiles and drywall. As a result, painters, carpenters, roofers and general laborers on construction projects likely all faced exposure to asbestos. Even today, when construction workers remove the material from older constructions, they face the risk of inhalation.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma. Though the dangers of asbestos are now known, individuals in these and other occupations who faced significant exposure to asbestos in the past may only just now be seeing the symptoms of this deadly disease. If so, they may still be able to seek compensation for the harm they are suffering. Louisiana residents who believe that their occupation contributed to their illness may want to discuss their legal options with knowledgeable attorneys.