Mesothelioma Lawyer, William Kherkher

Maritime Asbestos Risk: Boiler and Engine Room Workers

Maritime workers, including members of the U.S. Navy, who have worked in ships built before the mid 1970s, should be aware that they may be at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. Due to the enactment of a 1934 law, all United States ships were required to be constructed using fire retardant substances.

This law was meant to protect the inhabitants and workers aboard ocean-bound vessels. However, the primary fire retardant material used before the 1980s was asbestos. While it was not known at the time that this material is extremely dangerous to the human body, we now understand the full consequences of inhaling or ingesting the toxic substance.

Unfortunately, the workers at greatest risk of developing cancer due to asbestos exposure are those who worked in the boiler and engine rooms. Boiler or engine room workers were often required to work with materials that released asbestos dust. Asbestos was used in a variety of different ways, including:

• In insulation for pipes
• In fire retardant paint
• In plaster (asbestos cement)

Workers often had to disturb asbestos-containing materials to maintain and repair different parts of the boiler and engine equipment. The asbestos fibers that were released into the air could remain there for many hours and were easily inhaled or ingested by the boiler or engine room workers throughout their shift.

This type of asbestos exposure is known to cause mesothelioma, a cancer of the lungs. Mesothelioma is preventable; however, few workers were ever given the safety equipment needed to prevent the inhalation of the harmful asbestos fibers. If you were a boiler or engine room worker, it is in your best interest to be tested for mesothelioma immediately.

Workers who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have legal rights and should not hesitate to consult a mesothelioma lawyer. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer understands the complex legal process and will be able to guide you as you pursue legal action against the former employers or companies responsible for your suffering.

To schedule your initial consultation with a skilled mesothelioma attorney, contact the mesothelioma lawyers of Williams Kherkher today by calling 800-220-9341.