Roofers deal with hazards on their job that few other workers deal with. They have to ensure they are responsibly using heavy machinery and that they are stable when on a roof to prevent any falls. The most disturbing thing that many learn, however, is that perhaps the greatest risk to them is exposure to asbestos: the #1 leading cause of mesothelioma.
What is Mesothelioma?Exposure to asbestos is the #1 leading cause of mesothelioma cancer. Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer which attacks the chest and abdominals. Coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath are common symptoms. Treatment may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. There is no known cure for mesothelioma. The Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry estimate that over 27 million workers were exposed between the 1940s and 1980s.
Is Asbestos Present in Roofing Materials?Yes. Most people would be shocked to discover how many roofing materials contain asbestos. This poses a risk to construction workers who work with roofing materials, but also anyone who lives under a roof. Asbestos was widely used in roofing materials in the early 1900s. Its fire-resistance made it an excellent choice for roofing, especially because the industry was dealing with issues surrounding flammability. Asbestos also made roofing materials lightweight, durable, long-lasting, heat-resistant, and low cost.
Here are just some of the many roofing materials that contained asbestos:
Asbestos manufacturers often blended two types of asbestos to use in their materials: chrysotile (white asbestos) and amphibole. These fibers are dangerous and can become airborne, injuring workers who use them. In the 1980s, the country took significant strides to phase out all asbestos, but it may be too late for some. Often, injuries resulting from asbestos do not present themselves until 10-50 years after exposure, so the new restrictions will do little for people exposed in the past. Factory employees, shippers, manufacturers, builders, contractors, renovators, demolition specialists, and anyone else who worked around asbestos are at risk. Their sole remedy is compensation from asbestos manufacturers.
What Can I Do if I was Exposed to Asbestos Through Roofing Materials and Have Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?Victims are entitled to recover from asbestos manufacturers for their injuries. Money can be used for treatment, expenses, and to invest in your family’s future. Victims often do not have to sue and instead can draw from a trust. Many receive over $1 million for their injuries. While you will most likely be able to draw from a mesothelioma trust, if we determine that you cannot we can help you pursue other avenues of legal action. Family members of victims that have passed away can sue on their behalf and may be able to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Contact our mesothelioma attorneys today to determine what avenue is best in your case.
We understand that no amount of money can fully heal the injuries you have suffered, but we will do everything in our power to get you justice. Companies ought to be held liable for the injuries that result for their careless actions. We will not hesitate to take your case to trial if an initial settlement cannot be reached.
At Altman & Altman, we pride ourselves on being accessible to our clients. With over 40 years of experience in the greater Boston area, we have the resources to process your case to the fullest extent of the law. Each case will be treated with the compassion and level of attention it deserves. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and all emails are responded to within 4 hours – often sooner. In addition, our mesothelioma attorneys will travel to your home or elsewhere to consult with you – please contact our office for an initial consultation free of charge.