Throughout the 20th century, tons of asbestos were mined in our country and put in thousands of everyday products. Asbestos was very inexpensive and was used as filler in many different products throughout many different industries. For example, asbestos was widely used in insulation, HVAC systems, floor tiles and ceiling tiles.
There are a number of different jobs where workers were exposed to a large amount of asbestos on a very frequent basis. People who have worked as custodians may have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma cancer due to asbestos exposure on the jobsite.
Custodians, maintenance workers and janitors who have worked in schools and buildings may be at risk of developing mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos, now known to cause mesothelioma, was widely used in building materials due to its strength, insulating qualities and resistance to heat and flame.
These custodial workers are often responsible for all aspects of building maintenance. Regular job tasks can often include cleaning, maintenance of plumbing and electrical systems, maintenance of heating and air conditioning units, and maintenance of the building structure itself. All of these activities may put custodians at risk of asbestos exposure as asbestos was often found in insulation, roofing materials, ceiling tiles and floor tiles among many other construction materials commonly found in old buildings.
When asbestos is disturbed, or when it begins to deteriorate, asbestos fibers can easily be made airborne. This asbestos dust can accumulate, and when disturbed, can be released into the air and inhaled potentially leading to the development of mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis among other diseases.
Unfortunately, millions of people have been exposed to asbestos over the years. Only now are we able to see the disastrous effects of asbestos exposure in the workplace. Generally, it takes 10 to 60 years from the time of asbestos exposure until symptoms appear or mesothelioma is diagnosed.
Many of the companies have established trust funds to pay compensation to persons injured by asbestos.
If you have mesothelioma, or other asbestos-related injury, and wish to consult an attorney about your legal rights to compensation, CLICK HERE for a free consultation.