Workers in certain industries are unfortunately at a greater risk of encountering harmful substances than workers in other industries. For instance, many construction workers have been exposed to asbestos. One man lost his brother, who worked in construction for decades, to an asbestos-related disease. This man's brother was only 63 years old and was very healthy when he suddenly became aware that he had a health problem.
He went to the doctor and was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer associated with exposure to asbestos. Within five months of his diagnosis, he had died. Now, this man is working to inform others about the dangers of being exposed to asbestos.
This man explains that he is especially concerned about the health and safety of teenagers who have not begun working yet, but may be considering taking jobs in the construction industry. He worries that these young workers are unaware of the potential dangers of working in the construction industry for years.
Since asbestos-related illnesses often do not arise for years after a person is exposed to the harmful substance, these young workers likely would not realize until it is too late that their health was being harmed by their surroundings.
This man believes that his brother encountered asbestos in ceiling tiles, though workers can be exposed to asbestos in numerous places.
If workers are diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, they may want to look into seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost wages resulting from their illness. If an employer's negligence causes a worker to be exposed to a harmful substance like asbestos, he or she may benefit from filing a personal injury claim.
Source: The Vancouver Sun, "Deadly asbestos-related disease 'heart-wrenching' for families," Gordon Hoekstra, Feb. 27, 2013
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