Aircraft Mechanics and Mesothelioma

Certain professions, such as aircraft mechanics, face an increased risk of encountering asbestos and developing mesothelioma. Aircraft mechanics who have worked on military or commercial airplanes may have been exposed to asbestos in various materials, including brake pads, gaskets and valves. If they were employed before the mid-1980s, when safety regulations were less stringent, or worked on older airplanes, they may be at even higher risk.

If diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is beneficial to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer who is well-informed in cases related to aircraft mechanics. They can help secure the rightful compensation for the affected individual or their loved one.

Occupational Asbestos Exposure for Aircraft Mechanics

Aircraft mechanics' asbestos exposure occurs from the materials they handle when installing and repairing asbestos-containing aircraft components. Additionally, they may come into contact with asbestos through fireproofing equipment such as asbestos gloves and blankets.

In 2010, a comprehensive analysis of four studies on mesothelioma and aircraft mechanics was conducted by scientists. The findings indicated a notably high asbestos content in products routinely handled by aircraft mechanics, such as brakes, which contained 16% – 23% asbestos by weight.¹

Aside from occupational exposure, asbestos-related diseases among the loved ones of aircraft mechanics often stem from secondary asbestos exposure. Retired and current aircraft mechanics have unknowingly carried home minuscule asbestos fibers on their clothes, hair, and personal items, inadvertently exposing their loved ones to this invisible danger.

Asbestos Products Used by Aircraft Mechanics

Civilian and military aircraft mechanics were and still are at risk of exposure to asbestos products in various facets of their work. Asbestos was commonly utilized in aircraft parts from the early 1900s to 1980 because of its durability and fire resistance. Aircraft mechanics’ asbestos exposure could have been caused by working with, removing or cutting into any of the following asbestos products:

• Adhesives
• Asbestos blankets
• Asbestos gloves and other textiles
• Brake pads
• Cockpit heating systems
• Engine and electrical insulation
• Engine mounts
• Engine shields
• Engine shrouds
• Epoxy
• Gaskets
• Insulation
• Repair equipment
• Valves

Aircraft mechanics work in various sections of an aircraft, and several of these areas have either previous or ongoing asbestos contamination. Common workplace locations where aircraft mechanics were often exposed include:

• Brake systems
• Cockpits
• Engines
• Fuselages
• Landing gears
• Propellers
• Tail assemblies
• Wings

Compensation for Aircraft Mechanics With Mesothelioma

If you or a loved one were an aircraft mechanic and diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is beneficial to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer who is well-informed in cases related to the profession. They can help secure the rightful compensation for clients and their families. Firms such as Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney and Meisenkothen (ELSM) are practiced in assisting aircraft mechanics with mesothelioma cases and can offer comprehensive support in exploring all available courses of action.

Asbestos Trust Funds

In response to the growing awareness of the dangers of asbestos, numerous asbestos manufacturers have declared bankruptcy, leading to the establishment of mesothelioma trust funds to compensate victims of asbestos exposure.

Aircraft mechanics with asbestos exposure who have received a mesothelioma diagnosis can seek financial support through the submission of claims to cover medical expenses and lost income. At ELSM, our legal team is committed to helping individuals find the right trust funds for their unique situations and walking them through the claims process.

Lawsuits

Mesothelioma lawsuits are a legal recourse available to aircraft carriers who have suffered exposure to asbestos. Aircraft mechanics with mesothelioma can pursue personal injury lawsuits against manufacturers who failed to provide adequate protection from asbestos.

Successful lawsuits can result in significant settlements or court-awarded verdicts, which can be essential for covering expenses such as medical treatments, lost wages, and related costs. Careful selection of a mesothelioma lawyer for aircraft mechanics who delivers results is critical.

Workers’ Compensation

Workers' compensation is a vital state-funded program to support employees affected by work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes individuals in high-risk occupations exposed to asbestos, aircraft mechanics with mesothelioma being an example. These workers have the right to file workers' compensation claims, which can provide crucial coverage for medical expenses and a portion of their lost wages. ELSM is happy to help our clients explore the compensation options that are available to them.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after working as an aircraft mechanic, contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Mesothelioma Lawyers for Aircraft Mechanics

Asbestos exposure leads to a high risk of developing diseases like mesothelioma. Aircraft mechanics are no exception to this rule. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a life-changing illness, it's essential to receive the right support and guidance as you move forward. Having an experienced attorney well-versed in the various options for mesothelioma compensation can make a significant difference.

The most effective mesothelioma lawyers for aircraft mechanics understand the intricacies of your profession and your unique situation. They have the experience to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to, whether it entails filing claims with asbestos trust funds or filing a lawsuit. Partnering with a reputable mesothelioma law firm like ELSM enables you to concentrate on what's important while they fight for you and your loved ones.

FAQs

How are aircraft mechanics exposed to asbestos?

Aircraft mechanics are at high risk of exposure to asbestos from the materials they use when installing, maintaining, and repairing airplane parts. They may also encounter asbestos simply from working in a specific aircraft location.

Are aircraft mechanics at risk for developing mesothelioma?

Certain jobs put workers at higher risk of being exposed to asbestos and developing mesothelioma, such as aircraft mechanics. These workers may have encountered asbestos in aircraft parts, particularly if they were employed before the mid-1980s when safety rules were less strict or have done work on older airplanes.

Sources

1. Bianchi C, Bianchi T. Aircraft maintenance and mesothelioma. Indian J Occup Environ Med. 2010 Jan;14(1):24.