Asbestos is a naturally occurring compilation of fibers that are resistant to both dangerous chemicals and fire, which made it popular as a means of bolstering safety in the past. Over time, however, the risk factors associated with asbestos outpaced the benefits, and there is now a direct link between asbestos and an especially dangerous form of lung cancer called mesothelioma. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos on the job, don’t wait to consult with an experienced Enola workers’ compensation attorney.
The Risk Factors Related to Asbestos
Asbestos presents a serious risk factor when it is swallowed or inhaled, such as when workers are subject to significant exposure on an ongoing basis. The tiny glass-like fibers in asbestos are easily dispersed into the air when disturbed, and when they’re inhaled, they can become embedded in the lungs, stomach, or heart, which can – over time – lead to fatal forms of cancer. While the use of asbestos has been seriously limited in the United States, workers in certain professions can still experience dangerous exposure over time.
Those Most Vulnerable
Those who are most likely to be exposed to asbestos on the job include all the following:
- Construction workers, including welders, bricklayers, cement finishers, drywall installers, carpenters, painters, and plasterers
- Plumbers
- Roofers
- Car mechanics
- Workers in shipyards, power plants, and foundries
- Machinists and mechanics
- Steel and sheet metal workers
The effects of asbestos are cumulative and tend to take an immense toll on the health of workers over time. If you believe your illness is related to asbestos exposure on the job, you shouldn’t hold off on consulting with a determined workers’ compensation lawyer who has considerable experience successfully handling legally challenging asbestos claims.
Workers’ Compensation in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, asbestos-related injuries are covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act as an occupational disease, which means the timeline for filing a claim is extended. Benefits can include necessary medical expenses – which are likely to be ongoing – as well as disability and death benefits.
Because illnesses caused by asbestos are slow to develop while the effects are profound, related cases tend to be legally challenging. Further, more significant compensation is likely to be at stake.
Steps you can take to help protect your claim include all the following:
- Notifying your employer as soon as you recognize you have a work-related illness
- Working with a well-established workers’ comp attorney – who is well versed in the legal intricacies of asbestos claims – from the start
- Allowing your compassionate workers’ comp lawyer to faithfully guide your case forward while you focus on your health and well-being
An Experienced Enola Workers’ Compensation Attorney Is Standing By to Help
The insightful workers’ compensation lawyers at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe – proudly serving Enola, PA – understand how seriously your life has been affected by your asbestos-related condition, and we’re well-prepared and well-positioned to help. Obtaining just compensation is critical to your recovery, so please don’t delay reaching out and contacting us online or calling 717-728-3200 for more information about what we can do to help you today.