Auto Plant Worker
Auto plant workers are an occupation that has been affected by the health consequences of asbestos exposure. These people which helped with the production of cars, trucks, and other vehicles prior to the 1970’s may have been exposed to dangerous asbestos products during the course of their employment.
Asbestos, when disturbed, can release fibers and dust into the air, which when inhaled can lead to a number of health problems including asbestosis and such cancers as mesothelioma, lung, esophageal, gastrointestinal, laryngeal, and pharyngeal. Unfortunately, many of these asbestos exposures could have been prevented if auto mechanics had simply been given the proper knowledge, training and safety equipment.
Asbestos Products in Automotive Plants
Asbestos was used in a several areas of an automobile primarily because of its resistance to heat and friction, but also for a resistance to electrical damage, chemical damage, and its tensile strength. The following are the automobile products most likely to contain asbestos:
• brakes
• hood liners
• clutches
• gaskets
• heat-sealing materials
• valve rings
• packing
The installation of these asbestos-containing products had the potential to disturb asbestos fibers into the air and making auto plant workers at risk for asbestos exposure. As with most occupational asbestos exposures, the on-site workers are not the only people at risk for asbestos-related diseases. Auto mechanics often returned to their home covered in asbestos fibers putting both their family and friends at risk.
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Were You Exposed to Asbestos at Your Auto Plant Job? Mesothelioma Attorneys May be Able to Help
It is recommended that people who have spent a significant period of time working at an automotive plant get a full physical evaluation by a medical doctor. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, often takes 15-40 years to manifest and victims average only one year of life post- diagnosis. Thus, it is important to catch the disease in its early stages. At-risk workers should pay close attention to any mesothelioma symptoms which include fluid in the lungs, chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and believe you were exposed to asbestos over the course of your aerospace career, you may be entitled to financial compensation. To learn more about your legal options, please contact us for a free case evaluation. Thousands of victims have been helped by mesothelioma attorneys to receive the mesothelioma settlements they need and deserve.