Asbestos in the Workplace

Asbestos exposure can be very dangerous and lead to serious, often terminal diseases. Construction and manufacturing companies widely used this mineral for years before its side effects were discovered. 

While workplaces have taken steps to remove asbestos from their buildings and products, many employees are exposed to this mineral at work. If you encountered asbestos in the workplace, you may want to speak to a Washington workplace injury lawyer as soon as possible.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made of flexible fibers. It is resistant to heat, corrosion, and electricity, which makes it attractive for a variety of purposes. While asbestos can be useful, exposure to the substance can be extremely dangerous and lead to cancer and other serious health conditions.

Before its toxic effects were discovered, asbestos was widely used in a number of construction and manufacturing materials:

• Insulation
• Paper
• Cement
• Cloth
• Bricks
• Plastic
• Roofing shingles
• Ceiling and floor tiles
• Vehicle parts
• Packaging

Types of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Repeated exposure to asbestos can result in serious diseases, many of which do not show symptoms for years after the initial event. Some of the most common types of asbestos-related diseases include the following:

• Mesothelioma: Asbestos causes an aggressive cancer called mesothelioma. This cancer often develops in the lining of the lungs and the abdomen, leading to symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, and chest pain. The life expectancy for mesothelioma is typically 18 to 31 months after diagnosis.
• Asbestosis: When asbestos is inhaled, it can cause serious damage to the lungs. Asbestosis is a condition where stiff scar tissue forms in the lung, leading to serious symptoms like shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain. 
• Other Cancers: Aside from mesothelioma, asbestos has been linked to cancer in the lungs, throat, bladder, breast, kidney, prostate, and esophagus. Additionally, lymphoma and leukemia may also develop.

Filing a Claim After Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace

People are most commonly exposed to asbestos at work. However, companies who used asbestos were aware that asbestos can put people at risk of a disease. If you or a loved one came into contact with this toxic mineral at work and developed a serious illness, you deserve justice.

In these situations, you could file a lawsuit against the company that exposed you to asbestos and hold it accountable for its negligence. Through a lawsuit, you can recover financial compensation for the economic and non-economic damages that you or your loved one sustained due to the exposure:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earnings and benefits
• Disability accommodations
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of love, companionship, and support
• Funeral and burial expenses

Speak to an Attorney About Your Asbestos Claim

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos in the workplace, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. A workplace injury attorney can fight for your right to financial compensation and help you hold the negligent employer accountable. 

An attorney can help you and your family gather the evidence necessary to prove that the asbestos exposure happened at work, craft a compelling case in your favor, and support you throughout the claim. As soon as possible following the diagnosis, contact a Washington workplace injury attorney to discuss your case.