Workers suffering from a workplace illness can be in a difficult position as they are unable to work whilw face mounting medical bills to care for their occupational illness. It is essential for workers impacted by a workplace illness to know how they can get the help they need with lost wages and their medical expenses.
Asbestosis and Mesothelioma are serious medical conditions that can be caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure that develops in the cells that line the lungs, the inside the ribs or around the abdominal organs. Malignant mesothelioma is a serious disease that can be fatal for victims. As a result, workers suffering with mesothelioma or another workplace illness need to be aware of the different options protecting them and available to them.
A variety of different types of workers are at risk for asbestos-related illnesses including insulators who worked installing asbestos insulation; boilermakers who constructed boilers filled with asbestos insulation; plumbers and pipe fitters, including those that worked on ships; shipyard workers and Navy personnel; plasterers who worked with fireproofing spray; electricians, mechanics, carpenters, bricklayers, millwrights and other trade workers; steelworkers, refinery and oil field workers; other industrial workers; and maintenance workers and other laborers.
There is a long list of workers who may be potentially impacted by work-related asbestos exposure. Workers’ compensation benefits may be available to help them with the challenges they face because of their occupational illness and other legal options may be available to them as well. Due to the serious nature of a workplace illness, it is important for workers suffering with a workplace illness to be familiar with the different protections available to them.