ASBESTOS AND FIRE

Asbestos health dangers threaten the safety of all fire fighters

April 28, 2010 – Asbestos and fire are old acquaintances. And this classic association has made fire fighters (of all people) more vulnerable to the dangers of asbestos than most people realize.

A 1990 study of 226 veteran New York City fire fighters found that nearly half had chest X-rays that showed abnormalities related to asbestos exposure.

Before asbestos was publicly recognized and regulated as a cancer-causing agent, it was heavily used in the building construction industry for its fire-retardant properties. Ironically, the cancer-causing dangers associated with asbestos have killed many more people than its fire-retardant properties have ever saved.

Some 90,000 people die every year around the world from asbestos exposure, according to the World Health Organization.

How are fire fighters vulnerable to asbestos exposure?

Despite current regulations controlling the use of asbestos, old buildings still contain mother lodes of the stuff in the form of construction products (like asbestos drywall, asbestos cement, and asbestos pipe insulation).

When fire fighters pull down ceilings and pipes, or knock down walls to be sure fires are completely extinguished, asbestos fibers are released into the hot churning air where they can be inhaled into the lungs or settle on protective clothing.

Secondhand asbestos exposure can occur when asbestos dust and airborne fibers cling to protective gear. If contaminated clothing is not handled properly, anyone who comes in contact with the dusty items, including unsuspecting family members, becomes vulnerable.

Weitz & Luxenberg

Weitz & Luxenberg is recognized coast to coast for obtaining record-setting multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for asbestos-injured workers.

If you have been diagnosed with asbestos-related mesothelioma and seek a free consultation on your eligibility to receive compensation for lost wages, medical care and suffering, please contact our law firm through the communication form at left.

Protect your family’s financial future today. There is no cost until we obtain a settlement or a verdict in your favor.