Asbestos, a fibrous silicate material often used in fire-resistant and insulating materials, can increase the risk of mesothelioma when inhaled.
Individuals in certain professions, including firefighting and construction, are more likely to be exposed to asbestos.
Additionally, building demolition can send large plumes of asbestos into the air, potentially exposing those on and around the worksite.
Below, we discuss a specific example of this phenomenon and the damage it caused bystanders.
Asbestos Exposure During 9/11
When the Twin Towers collapsed on September 11, 2001, over 400 tons of pulverized asbestos and other hazardous materials were released into the air.
Hundreds of thousands of people across Manhattan breathed in this toxic dust during the attack and subsequent cleanup. The consequences of that fateful event continue to be dire 19 years after the attack.
One recent study found that every first responder to the Twin Towers suffered some form of lung damage. Additionally, there was a 19% increase in cancer diagnoses in firefighters on the scene.
A Common Occurrence
Asbestos exposure such as what happened on 9/11 continues to occur today, if to a lesser extent.
Any time a building is demolished, asbestos and other hazardous materials may be released into the air and put all on-site workers at risk of exposure.
In addition to construction workers, those most at risk of asbestos exposure include:
-
Navy and Armed Service members
-
Metal workers
-
Shipyard workers
-
Contractors
-
Electricians
-
Plumbers
-
Pipefitters
Suffering from Mesothelioma? Contact Us Today
If you or someone you love is suffering from mesothelioma that you believe was caused by asbestos exposure, we’re here to help.
We know the physical, emotional, and financial turmoil that you are experiencing, and we want to protect your right to compensation.
Contact Shrader & Associates L.L.P. today to speak with our team.