Exposure to asbestos has been linked to numerous health conditions, illnesses, and cancers. Because asbestos is most dangerous when it is disturbed—as this is when asbestos fibers can be released into the air and breathed in or ingested—individuals who work with or around asbestos are at a significantly higher risk of developing these negative health consequences. As a result, workers in certain industries, those that heavily deal with asbestos and asbestos-containing materials, are at the greatest risk of developing asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other related conditions.
Were you exposed to asbestos in your line of work and later diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related condition? Contact Richmond Vona, LLC to speak to one of our skilled mesothelioma attorneys about your legal rights and options and more of the most common high risk occupations for asbestos exposure in Buffalo.
Which Workers Are Most at Risk?
Throughout the 20th Century, asbestos was heavily used in the manufacturing of many industrial and consumer products and materials. It was also prominently used in military operations. As a result, workers within those industries, as well as veterans, have the highest rates of asbestos-related illnesses and cancers. Other high risk occupations for asbestos exposure in and around Buffalo include but are not limited to:
- Steelworkers
- Ironworkers
- Union laborers
- Boilermakers
- Electricians
- Steamfitters
- Pipefitters
- Millwrights
- Sheet metal workers
- Insulators
- Carpenters
- Plasters
- Auto/truck mechanics
- Molders
- Navy machinist mates
- Firemen/boilermen
- Shipfitters
These and other workers who were required to handle asbestos-containing materials have a much higher chance of later developing mesothelioma, lung cancer, COPD, asbestosis, and other related conditions.
Who Else Is at Risk?
While those who worked with asbestos and asbestos-containing products in Buffalo day in and day out are, by far, the most at risk of developing related illnesses and conditions, they are not the only ones. Sadly, because the true dangers of asbestos were not commonly known by workers and the general public, very few precautions were taken throughout the 1900s to limit exposure. As a result, workers often unknowingly carried home asbestos fibers on their skin, in their hair, and on their clothing, accidentally putting their family members and loved ones at risk of inhaling or ingesting them. As a result, the spouses, children, and other family members of high-risk workers are also at a slightly higher risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses and diseases.
Additionally, anyone who came into contact with asbestos, particularly when the asbestos was disturbed, such as during home renovation projects, is at risk.
What Should You Do If You Are a High-Risk Worker?
If you are a high-risk worker in Buffalo and you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to convey this information to your doctor. Whether or not you have already experienced symptoms of an asbestos-related condition, such as difficulty breathing and painful coughing, it is important to make sure your doctor is aware that you have been exposed to asbestos. One of the things that makes mesothelioma and other asbestos-related conditions so dangerous is the fact that they are often not diagnosed early on. Early treatment of any disease is typically associated with a better, more favorable prognosis.
If you are/were a high-risk worker, or if you know you came into contact with asbestos over a prolonged period of time, and have now been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, pleural plaques, COPD, or any other similar condition, reach out to an asbestos attorney. You could be entitled to financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. The asbestos industry knew about the dangers of asbestos exposure for decades, yet did nothing to warn the public or take safety measures to prevent widespread harm. Our Buffalo asbestos attorneys can help you hold these negligent parties accountable.
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John Richmond has been extremely helpful on several occasions with matters we presented to him. I was very impressed with the exceptional diligence and professionalism he exhibited in successfully handling those issues. He took into consideration my thoughts and reasons behind the items I felt needed to be addressed. He went out of his way to make meeting with us a very convenient and pleasant experience. When our son required assistance with a custody issue we again went to Mr. Richmond. As it was an issue that was outside the scope of his expertise he did not hesitate to recommend another attorney in the field which was needed. That attorney was also exceptional and that case was also successfully resolved and for that recommendation we truly thank him. We will, beyond any doubt, utilize his firm and services for any matters that may arise in the future. I do not hesitate to highly recommend Mr. Richmond and his firm.
My experience with Richmond Vona was exceptional. Keith and John gave my case all the attention required to bring about a successful result. They were a calming and confident presence during a very difficult time in my life. I was never treated like a number, but more like family. They were in constant communication with me to make sure that everything I was going through was taken care of. I appreciate all of the support I received from Keith and John. I am proud to be part of the Richmond Vona family, and would highly recommend them to anyone
Let me be honest, I’ve been skeptical of attorneys in the past…. but Keith Vona and Richmond Vona, LLC changed that. They are professional, caring, thorough and trustworthy. They assisted me and my family with a challenging mesothelioma case. Challenging why, because my father passed before he could testify. Keith remained in contact, updated us regularly and I believe went above and beyond normal due diligence. I would highly recommend Richmond Vona, LLC. Thank you for all you have done for our family!!
Contact Our Attorneys if You Have a Buffalo Occupation That is High Risk for Asbestos Exposure
We believe that no one should have to fear for their health or safety while at work. Unfortunately, the asbestos industry’s negligent and wrongful conduct has made it so workers in high-risk occupations must do exactly that. If you have a high risk occupation for asbestos exposure in Buffalo, please reach out to us as soon as possible to learn how our attorneys can help. We will take the time to sit down with you, listen to your story, and understand your unique challenges and goals. From there, we can build a strong case and advocate tirelessly for you and your recovery.
Contact our office today. We serve clients throughout Western New York.
