Pipefitters and Asbestos
Asbestos fibers are very dangerous, and exposure to them can cause severe lung damage, mesothelioma, and even death. Asbestos was once a legal substance used for building materials, such as ceramic tiles, drywall, and pipes, but in the late 1980s it was banned from use because of its dangerous effects on the human body. Unfortunately, pipefitters were especially prone to asbestos exposure prior to the 1980s because their building materials were directly related to asbestos fibers.
Pipefitters who were exposed to asbestos most frequently worked on large commercial buildings which needed a multitude of pipes in their construction. Asbestos was very often used by pipefitters because it is highly resistant to both heat and friction. Because pipefitters were often enclosed in small spaces while doing their meticulous work, their exposure to asbestos became even more dangerous, and thousands of pipefitters were unknowingly exposed to dangerous asbestos fibers.
Signs of Asbestos Exposure
The particularly worrisome aspect of asbestos exposure is that it may not be clear that exposure happened since the effects of it often do not appear until decades after the initial exposure period. It is important to recognize some common signs of asbestos-related disease so that you can immediately seek legal help and treatment as soon as exposure becomes apparent. Signs include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing/persistent coughing
- Chest pain
- Loss of appetite/nausea
- Difficulty swallowing
If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, seek legal and medical help immediately.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one suffered asbestos exposure because of dangerous piping, contact the experienced mesothelioma attorneys of Williams Kherkher at 800-781-3955. We may be able to help you fight for the financial compensation you deserve.
