The use of asbestos in construction products for decades left workers vulnerable to mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. While today asbestos use is highly regulated and strict safety standards protect workers and the public from exposure, the danger of asbestos use continues to linger.
Although asbestos is not necessarily dangerous when left undisturbed, when broken or crushed – as in construction and renovation work – inhaled or ingested microscopic fibers can cause fatal diseases. It typically takes a long time between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer and other asbestos-related diseases.
If doctors recently diagnosed you with mesothelioma and you worked in construction, talk to an experienced mesothelioma lawyer from Vogelzang Law about whether you may have a claim. Our lawyers have two decades of experience handling mesothelioma cases connected to asbestos in construction. Working with an experienced Chicago mesothelioma attorney who can help you navigate the complicated mesothelioma claims process is crucial.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and lethal cancer type that can impact different areas of the body, including the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), or the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Even rarer is tunica vaginalis mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the testicles.
Exposure to asbestos fibers causes mesothelioma. You can inhale or ingest the tiny fibers during home renovations or construction projects.
This disease targets the thin layer of tissue surrounding organs, known as the mesothelial cells. Malignant mesothelioma leads to the thickening of this lining, potentially spreading to negatively impact the organ in question and neighboring organs.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma symptoms can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma and the stage of the disease.
- Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma affect the lungs and may include persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing.
- Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma affect the lining of the abdomen and may include abdominal pain or swelling, changes in bowel habits, nausea and vomiting, fluid buildup in the abdomen, and loss of appetite.
- Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma affect the heart and may include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fever, night sweats, and fatigue.
- Symptoms of tunica vaginalis mesothelioma affect the testicles and may include swelling or a mass in the testicle, pain or discomfort in the testicle, and fluid buildup in the scrotum.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by various other health conditions as well, making mesothelioma difficult to diagnose. If you have a history of asbestos exposure or suspect mesothelioma due to these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes for mesothelioma patients.
What are the risks of exposure to asbestos in construction?
Asbestos exposure in construction work can pose serious health risks. Inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers can lead to deadly diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Commercial Construction and Demolition
Asbestos can pose a significant danger in commercial construction and demolition projects. Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in commercial buildings constructed before regulations restricted their use due to the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Many older commercial buildings may still have asbestos-containing materials in various forms, such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing materials, and cement pipe insulation. If these materials are disturbed or damaged during demolition or renovation, asbestos fibers could be released into the air.
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Workers involved in demolition or renovation projects are at risk if proper precautions are not taken. Commercial construction and demolition projects are subject to federal and state regulations regarding asbestos. These regulations require proper testing, abatement procedures, and worker protection to minimize the risk of exposure.
To mitigate the dangers associated with asbestos in commercial construction and demolition:
- Conduct asbestos inspections and testing before starting any work.
- Follow asbestos abatement procedures if asbestos-containing materials are identified.
- Provide proper training and protective gear for workers.
- Comply with all relevant asbestos regulations and guidelines.
Consulting with asbestos experts and legal professionals who focus on environmental and construction law can help ensure compliance and the safety of workers and the public during these projects.
Residential Construction and Renovation
Sometimes construction or renovation projects expose people to asbestos in their homes, not their workplaces. Asbestos was used for decades for insulation and fire protection in products such as asbestos cement sheets, often called “fibro” or “AC sheet,” used in roofing, siding, and wall panels.
Other products that used asbestos as a strengthening and fire-resistant component include vinyl flooring tiles and drywall and joint compounds. Asbestos was also sometimes added to textured paint and popcorn ceilings for texture and fireproofing. Asbestos was also used around pipes and boilers.
The use of asbestos in building materials has significantly declined due to health concerns. However, buildings constructed before the 1980s may still contain asbestos.
If you suspect asbestos may be present in a building, consult with professionals for proper testing and safe removal if necessary. Additionally, legal regulations and guidelines exist for the safe management and removal of asbestos.
Liability for Mesothelioma Resulting from Asbestos in Construction
Construction companies are responsible for providing adequate safety measures and training to protect their employees from asbestos exposure. Failure to do so can lead to workplace accidents and legal consequences. If employers expose workers to asbestos with improper protection or warnings, workers may seek compensation for their health issues.
Failure to comply with federal and state regulations regarding asbestos handling and removal can result in fines and legal actions against construction companies and legal liability for commercial property owners, contractors, and construction companies.
You can hold the manufacturer of asbestos products liable for mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can bring a claim for product liability, failure to warn, negligence, strict liability, and breach of warranty.
Numerous lawsuits and settlements have resulted from asbestos-related legal liability over the years. The legal landscape regarding asbestos continues to evolve, and the specific liability a manufacturer faces can vary depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction.
Also, many asbestos product manufacturers faced such extensive liability that they filed for bankruptcy. They may have established asbestos bankruptcy trusts to compensate victims.
Individuals seeking compensation for asbestos-related illnesses should work with legal professionals who specialize in asbestos litigation to navigate these complex legal matters. The legal team at Vogelzang Law has more than 20 years of experience in working with mesothelioma patients and their families for claims involving asbestos in construction.
If You Developed Mesothelioma After Exposure to Asbestos in Construction, Contact Vogelzang Law Today
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos in construction, we take your diagnosis seriously. At Vogelzang Law, our Chicago mesothelioma & asbestos lawyers have helped over 250 clients and secured more than $200 million in verdicts and settlements.
We will partner with you every step of the way, from consultation to potential litigation, to ensure your case is in the best hands possible. Our primary offices are located in Chicago and Grand Rapids, Michigan, and we handle mesothelioma claims nationwide.
Call us at (312) 466-1669 or (616) 319-1874 or fill out the contact form on our website for your free consultation. There is no cost for the consultation or to file your lawsuit.
