Throughout the 20th century, tons of asbestos were mined in our country and put in thousands of everyday products. Asbestos was very inexpensive and was used as filler in many different products throughout many different industries. For example, asbestos was widely used in drywall, ceiling and floor tiles, and electrical wiring insulation.
There are a number of different jobs where workers were exposed to a large amount of asbestos on a very frequent basis. People who have worked as electricians may have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma cancer due to asbestos exposure on the jobsite.
Electricians are responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical wiring in homes and buildings. Unfortunately asbestos products were widely used in electrical systems and in homes built before it became known to the public that asbestos exposure could lead to the development of mesothelioma cancer. Electricians are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma as they were likely exposed to large quantities of asbestos dust on a regular basis.
Asbestos was relied on heavily in construction materials such as drywall, plaster and floor and ceiling tiles because its mineral properties made it strong, fire-proof, and resistant to heat in addition to being affordable. Since electrical wiring is rarely in plain view, electricians regular had to drill and saw through asbestos materials in small unventilated areas creating asbestos dust. When inhaled, it can cause tissue inflammation that may lead to mesothelioma cancer.
The mineral was also commonly found in the electrical products, such as electric wiring insulation and panels, used daily by electricians because of its ability to insulate wires without conducting electricity. The handling, repair, and installation of these electrical products increased the risk of mesothelioma cancer to electricians.
Although the use of asbestos in new products is regulated, electricians working in older homes should be aware when working in both commercial and residential buildings constructed prior to asbestos regulation.
Unfortunately, millions of people have been exposed to asbestos over the years. Only now are we able to see the disastrous effects of asbestos exposure in the workplace. Generally, it takes 10 to 60 years from the time of asbestos exposure until symptoms appear or mesothelioma is diagnosed.
Many of the companies have established trust funds to pay compensation to persons injured by asbestos.
If you have mesothelioma, or other asbestos-related injury, and wish to consult an attorney about your legal rights to compensation, CLICK HERE for a free consultation.
