Asbestos was widely used in auto shops due to its resistance to corrosive chemicals and heat. The fibrous substance could range in texture from coarse to smooth depending on how it was processed. The airborne particles are too tiny to be visible with the eyes, but they can cause serious health problems when inhaled. Airborne asbestos can cause lung scarring to those who have close contact with the substance in an auto mechanic shop, which may result in impaired lungs in the long run. It could also lead to death or disability.
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Auto industry health risks
Beyond asbestos exposure, there are other risks for those working in the auto industry, whether as a mechanic, manufacturer, or factory worker. Health conditions spanning from long-term work in the audio industry may include renal failure, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and other health conditions. Since asbestos leads to mesothelioma, one of the most dangerous forms of cancer that take years to show itself, let’s take a closer look at this condition and how the work environment directly correlates.
Asbestos exposure in the auto industry
Companies that deal with asbestos products, such as auto manufacturers, factories, and mechanic shops, should perform asbestos testing, set exposure limits, and require protective equipment when working around and with asbestos. Employers should provide clean rooms to employees to prepare for their exposure to limit any damage in their work. Eyeshields and respirators can be utilized to reduce the exposure for employees. Employers should limit the amount of time an employee is directly exposed to the harmful product. Materials containing asbestos must be labeled to warn users of the dangers associated with asbestos.
After completion of their daily duties, employees should use the decontamination exit area. In this area, the employee has an option to shower and change from the personal protective equipment. A certified asbestos inspector can help your company learn more about the workplace’s precautions to ensure employees’ safety. Adoption of the proper precautions can minimize the effects of asbestos exposure in the long run.
Asbestos compensation
It is vital to speak to an asbestos attorney if you have been exposed to asbestos, whether due to working in the auto industry or in any other job that may have led to asbestos exposure. Many people are often exposed to this hazardous material at their workplaces unknowingly until it’s too late. Exposure for an extended period could lead to mesothelioma, a deadly type of cancer that affects the respiratory system.
Mesothelioma is characterized by difficulty in breathing, chest pain, and excessive weight loss. Some patients experience body weakness. You may experience these symptoms, but mesothelioma may not be the cause. Mesothelioma takes decades to develop before showing signs, and it can easily be misdiagnosed. You need help from an expert to find out whether you have the disease.
If you suspect prolonged exposure to asbestos, you should talk to a lawyer who helps you file a lawsuit against a company or persons that knowingly utilizes asbestos materials. A lawyer helps you know the type of industries that deal with the substance. Upon confirmation of exposure, you should get a diagnosis from a cancer physician. If you have not developed the symptoms but have been exposed to asbestos, it is vital to inform your physician who runs the necessary tests.
Upon confirmation of mesothelioma, an attorney helps you get compensation from your employer involving medical bills, suffering, and pain resulting from the disease. Treatment of mesothelioma is expensive and could drain the family and friends financially. It involves chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Depending on the severity of mesothelioma, a physician may recommend the three options. It would be best to choose an attorney upon careful consideration of various key factors such as experience and specialization—lawyers with a wide range of experience in mesothelioma guarantee the lawsuit’s success.
