Working as a firefighther is risky in and of itself, but it isn't only the fire that these brave men and women need to worry about. For the most part, older buildings are more prone to catch fire, given their construction and lack of modern safety features. These types of buildings are typically full of asbestos, whether it be the ceiling tiles, insulation, or other areas of the home. Firefighters need to be extremely careful when entering an older house or building that is on fire.
A recent study showed that firefighters are twice as likely to develop cancer because of their extreme working conditions. In fact, in the past two years, more firefighters have been diagnosed with cancer than in the past 10 years. In the 60s and 70s, it was not uncommon for firefighters to enter a burning building without any breathing equipment. Back then, the dangers of the chemicals released in the fire were unknown. When buildings burn, any asbestos inside will disintegrate into the air and linger there for days. It may also settle on the clothing and equipment of the firefighters, causing them to inhale it even days after the fire was put out.
For this reason, it is recommended that firefighters always wash their clothing and equipment after each job. Leaving their helmet on even after a fire is put out is also recommended to ensure that firefighters don't inhale any asbestos or other chemicals from the site of the fire.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma because an employer failed to provide you with the proper safety equipment, contact the mesothelioma lawyers of Williams Kherkher by calling 800-220-9341.