There are many workers/employees that worked in an asbestos shipyard. Given the recent developments and studies about mesothelioma cancer and its link to asbestos, they want answers. This article provides answers to frequently asked questions about asbestos and shipyards.
How are people exposed to asbestos?
Before the mid 1970’s, most material used for insulation was manufactured with asbestos. Unfortunately, insulation was not the only material used that contained asbestos. Several others consisted of pipe, boiler and fireproofing spray insulation. Others were roofing materials, floor and ceiling tiles, car parts including clutches and brakes, furnace and boiler insulation, joint compound insulation and more.
What professions were more at risk for asbestos exposure?
Most notably, asbestos shipyard workers exhibit one of the highest incidents of workers that now suffer from mesothelioma. Servicemen and women in the Navy – during the Korean War and WWII – were especially at risk as asbestos on ships was greatly used because of its insulation and heat-resistant properties. Other professions that came into high contact with asbestos include plumbers, plasterers, electricians, carpenters, mechanics, construction workers, bricklayers, pipe and steamfitters and maintenance and steelworkers.
Should asbestos shipyard workers contact a mesothelioma lawyer?
Mesothelioma cancer has been proven thousands of times to be the result of illegal exposure to asbestos. This is because asbestos is and was a known carcinogen. Employers and manufacturers knew this and still exposed their workers knowing they could contract a deadly disease as a result of this exposure. Anyone who is given a mesothelioma diagnosis should consult with an experienced attorney to discuss their options.Can I file for workers’ compensation pay if diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illness?The law regarding Workers’ Compensation is designed to assist employees as well as employers in coping with health insurance red tape. At the benefit of workers, the Worker’s Compensation Act delivers benefits to employees injured while on the job or suffering an occupational disease arising from their course of employment. These benefits can include weekly payments that are derived from a percentage of average wages for the employee for partial, temporary or total disability and also permanent loss of function and disfigurement. It can also cover medical expenses including reasonable treatments necessary and related to injury and vocational rehab services. Regrettably, Workers’ Compensation is often insufficient to cover the impact of a serious disease that may have resulted from asbestos shipyard exposure. This is why it is important to work with a mesothelioma law firm to recuperate monies owed to you because of their negligence. These claims require immediate action as the mesothelioma prognosis for most patients is under 2 years.