Construction Workers Mesothelioma Attorneys in West Virginia
Those employed in certain trades may face an elevated risk for asbestos exposure and asbestos-related cancers. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction is ranked as one of the most hazardous industries in the country – it is considered the most hazardous land occupation, and is second only to the fishing trade overall.
One of the ever-present risks that come with the construction trade is the risk for asbestos exposure. Those employed in areas focusing on roofing, tile installation, drywall installation or painting are at particular risk, due to the exposure to asbestos-containing products. Asbestos is the only known cause of the aggressive, rare cancer known as mesothelioma, which can arise many years – even decades – after a construction worker is first exposed.
As a result, there are many construction professionals continuing to develop asbestos-related cancer.
Although manufacturers have mostly stopped using new products that contain asbestos, there are still many job sites and buildings that are fitted with contaminated materials. This means that any worker that comes into contact with these materials is at risk for asbestos exposure.
Those Most at Risk
According to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, it is estimated that at least 1.3 million construction trade workers are at a continued risk for asbestos exposure on the job, otherwise known as occupational exposure. Even more startling is the fact that approximately 10,000 workers are predicted to die each year (over the next 10 years) from asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma.
Because of a long-standing industry practice that sought to add asbestos to a number of construction products, workers from every trade background are at risk for occupational illnesses. However, those particularly at risk include:
- Bulldozer operators
- Demolition and wrecking crews
- Home renovators
- Insulation workers
- Pipefitters
- Roofers
- Masonry workers
- Plumbers
- Plasterers
In many cases, workers from these various trade backgrounds are sharing a single job site. When asbestos dust spreads, it does so quickly, meaning that an individual can be exposed to asbestos from the work of those around them in addition to their own work. It also means an elevated risk for secondary exposure, which occurs when construction workers bring asbestos dust home on their clothes or tools. In many cases, these secondary exposures to construction workers’ spouses, children, and family members are considered just as deadly.
Taking Legal Action
Are you or someone you know dealing with a recent mesothelioma diagnosis? If so, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Only a qualified attorney can assess your individual mesothelioma case and determine the best strategy for the recovery for your illness.
At Antion McGee Law Group, PLLC, we focus on handling asbestos cases. We understand that dealing with any type of cancer is never easy, and mesothelioma is no exception.
Our legal team has had a great deal of success handling these types of claims, and is committed to you, your family, and your case.
We are prepared to work with you at every level to build a case that works for you and your diagnosis. That means traveling to meet with you wherever is most convenient, whether it be your home or hospital. Do not delay – our firm is prepared to support you in your diagnosis today. To schedule a preliminary consultation to evaluate your case, call the legal team at Antion McGee Law Group, PLLC at (304) 807-0739.
