During most of the 20th century, asbestos was a common component of insulation in places where fire or extreme heat was a threat. It is for this reason that most oil refineries in Louisiana were built using asbestos. Not only was the substance used in building materials, but a fibrous form was used in protection gear as well.
The rampant use of asbestos has exposed many workers to serious health issues, including mesothelioma. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the work place and become ill, resulting in significant medical expenses and loss of wages, you may have a claim to recoup lost income and seeking the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney is advisable.
Inhaling asbestos fibers
Breathing in asbestos fibers that have been released into the environment can cause severe damage to the lungs and even cause cancer. This type of exposure has been the leading cause of mesothelioma. This disease of the lungs is almost always fatal.
Due to the severity of asbestos exposure, the government has enacted stringent guidelines to regulate the use of the substance.
Delayed symptoms
Exposure to asbestos can sometimes take 10 to 30 years to manifest as an illness. If you are suffering from the symptoms of mesothelioma, the exposure may have taken place many years ago. The length of time since the initial contact with the substance does not preclude you from being duly compensated for your illness.
Treatment
New treatments are being developed to help you combat the effects of asbestos exposure. If you have spent time working in petroleum plants in Louisiana and suspect that you may have come into contact with asbestos, contact your doctor to find out about methods used for early detection.
Working in petroleum refineries, chemical plants, and other industrial environments can be very dangerous. Fortunately, the government has enacted legislation to regulate and enforce safety is these types of workplaces. When those regulations are willfully ignored or violated, workers are put in danger.
Becoming the victim of a workplace induced injury or illness affects not only you, but your family as well. If you have been exposed to toxic chemicals such as asbestos or been injured on the job, contact a local Louisiana attorney today and find out what options you have to recoup medical expenses and lost wages.