Jobs that can increase the risk of asbestos exposure

Every job comes with some amount of risk to a person’s safety and health. Of course, some occupations are more dangerous than others.

For instance, if you work in certain capacities, you could be in danger of developing severe illnesses after exposure to toxic substances like asbestos.

Occupations with higher exposure risks

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that asbestos can be found in a wide range of environments and products. Parties commonly used asbestos because it is inexpensive, strong, and resistant to fire and water.

Because of these properties, asbestos can be in building materials, car parts, water and some fabrics. Thus, a person could be at a higher risk of coming in contact with asbestos if they work in:

• Construction
• Demolition
• Automotive restoration or repair
• Plumbing
• Manufacturing
• Painting
• Roofing

If you or your loved one works in these capacities, it is crucial to be aware of the risks of asbestos exposure and take precautions to protect yourself.

Staying safe on the job

When you are on the job, you can protect yourself by:

• Wearing protective gear
• Avoiding any materials that may contain asbestos
• Following protocols to remove or cover asbestos properly
• Reporting any unsafe conditions to your employer or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration

An employer should alert workers to the presence of asbestos and enforce protective measures to keep workers safe. However, this does not always happen, and people can experience the devastating consequences of toxic exposure.

Know your legal options

If you are sick or have lost a loved one due to an asbestos-related illness like lung cancer or mesothelioma, you could be struggling with enormous medical bills, lost wages and emotional distress. While money cannot undo these and other damages, it can compensate victims for these economic and non-economic losses.

Therefore, parties who have gotten sick after being exposed to asbestos at work would be wise to consider their legal options. Potential remedies include workers’ compensation benefits or a personal injury claim.