As we mentioned in Monday’s post, workers in many different blue-collar trades are at risk for being exposed to asbestos at work. Construction workers, shipbuilders, even teachers can be at risk while on the job.
While asbestos is a known carcinogen and has been classified as a hazard to human health, limited exposure is still allowed in the workplace. Here are a few ways deadly exposure can happen:
Asbestos-Containing Materials
Sometimes, a worker might not know that the wall they are about to drill into or the deteriorating pipe covering above their head contains asbestos. Identifying damaged or potential asbestos products is just one way to keep yourself safe at work.
Lack of Proper Training
If you are in a construction trade, such as plumbing, drywalling, or another occupation, the proper training will keep you safe from exposure while working around asbestos-containing materials.
Employer Disregard
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has put strict guidelines in place for employers to follow regarding exposure among workers. Putting your health at risk by allowing you to handle asbestos is not acceptable, yet it happens all of the time.
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If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease due to exposure at work, do not hesitate to contact an experienced asbestos attorney today. Workers in the past have been compensated for expensive medical bills, time lost at work, and much more.