For centuries, asbestos was viewed as a valuable material for many different industries, ranging from construction to the production of various consumer goods. The durability, heat resistance, and cost effectiveness of asbestos made it a “miracle” material. Unfortunately, millions of workers worldwide paid the price for the heavy use of this toxin that causes deadly diseases like mesothelioma.
Being exposed to asbestos at work is more common than many realize, and still occurs today despite stricter regulations around its use.
Asbestos remains the number one cause of occupational cancer in the United States. Around the world, it’s estimated that 125 million people are exposed to asbestos through work each year.
If you’re one of thousands of people who breathed in asbestos particles, worked around the substance, or had second-hand exposure from someone who did, it’s no surprise you are suffering with health consequences now.
The workers exposed to asbestos most often in the past include:
- Construction workers
- Shipyard
- Boiler operators
- Electricians
- Mechanics
- Asbestos miners