5 Signs There’s Asbestos in Your Workplace

The workplace is where we spend a significant portion of our lives. Unfortunately, not all dangers you may encounter at work are visible to the naked eye. One such hidden threat is asbestos, a hazardous material that has the potential to lurk in work environments, silently jeopardizing the health of employees and their families. Understanding warning signs of asbestos in your workplace can help you seek medical treatment and compensation for your losses. 

At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., our esteemed principal attorney, Joe Williams, is dedicated to fighting fiercely for his client’s rights and interests. Attorney Williams has never lost a case and can meet with you personally in your home to begin work on your claim. Our firm treats every case as our cause and is passionate about helping you achieve justice for your asbestos-related damages. 

5 Warning Signs There May Be Asbestos in Your Workplace

While you may know the dangers of asbestos exposure, such as asbestosis and mesothelioma, it can be challenging to determine if you are being exposed in your workplace. Understanding the following warning signs can help you protect yourself and your family:

You Work in an At-Risk Occupation

Some occupations have a higher risk of asbestos exposure than others. Before its dangers were widely known, asbestos was used in various common materials and may still linger in many modern workplaces. A few high-risk occupations include the following:

• Construction workers
• Miners
• Manufacturing & industrial workers
• Hairdressers
• Firefighters
• Mechanics
• Engineers
• Oil refinery workers
• Shipyard workers
• Railroad workers
• Military personnel

Although working in these industries does not necessarily mean you have been exposed to asbestos, you have a greater risk than individuals in other occupations. 

You Work in an Older Building

Asbestos was a common building material until the dangers were exposed in the early 1970s. If you work in an older building, asbestos fibers may be present in your workplace’s insulation, paint, or roofing materials.

You Work Near a Contaminated Site

If you work near a known site contaminated with asbestos, your workplace may also be contaminated. Asbestos can travel through the soil and water, leaving a trail of contamination in its wake. New York is home to many known asbestos sites. However, just because a site is not listed does not mean the property has no asbestos. 

Your Employer is Not Following Appropriate Safety Protocols

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers are required to test for asbestos in the workplace and have safety protocols in place to mitigate employee exposure, such as providing personal protective equipment. If your employer fails to follow these essential safety standards, you may be more at risk for asbestos exposure at work. 

You Are Experiencing Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure

One of the most significant signs you may have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace is experiencing symptoms. A few common symptoms of asbestos exposure include the following:

• Shortness of breath
• Dry cough
• Wheezing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Abdominal pain and swelling
• Bowel obstruction
• Hernias
• Weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing

This is not a complete list, and other symptoms may be linked to asbestos exposure. If you suspect you have been exposed, seeing a medical professional as soon as possible is vital. 

Discuss Your Case With a Compassionate Asbestos Attorney at The Williams Law Firm, P.C.

If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace, do not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal services as we help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We understand an asbestos exposure claim is the most serious case you could have and will be by your side throughout every step of the legal process. When you choose our firm, you can have peace of mind that your case is in caring and experienced hands. 

Schedule a free consultation by calling (855) 575-6376 or completing our online contact form.