Boilermakers and Mesothelioma


Individuals in certain professions face a heightened risk of encountering asbestos and developing mesothelioma, boilermakers being no exception.

These workers may have been exposed to asbestos in various materials, including asbestos cement, valves, and pipes, particularly if they were employed before the mid-1980s when safety regulations were less stringent or worked on older boilers after this time.

In the event of a mesothelioma diagnosis, it is imperative to seek the support of a highly experienced mesothelioma lawyer with a proven track record in boilermaker-related cases. They are crucial in securing the rightful compensation for the affected individual and their loved ones.

Occupational Asbestos Exposure for Boilermakers

boilermakers on a drilling machine

Boilermakers’ asbestos exposure is significantly high because of the materials they manipulate while making, maintaining, and handling boilers. Studies have reported elevated levels of asbestos diseases for several types of boiler workers, including boilermakers, boiler technicians, and boiler welders. A study of boiler technicians shows a higher-than-normal risk of dying from mesothelioma.1 And Norwegian researchers found higher than expected levels of lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma among boiler welders.2

Asbestos-related diseases among boilermakers' loved ones are often the result of secondary asbestos exposure. Boilermakers may unknowingly bring home tiny asbestos fibers on their clothes, hair, and personal items, exposing their loved ones to the invisible danger. When these microscopic fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can lead to severe health problems.

Asbestos Products Used by Boilermakers

Boilermakers were and still are at risk of exposure to asbestos in various facets of their work. Asbestos, a commonly utilized material from the early 1900s to the 1980s, was prevalent in manufacturing, educational, and military facilities such as shipyards. Boiler workers with mesothelioma could have been exposed by working with, removing or cutting into any of the following asbestos products:

  • Adhesives and sealants
  • Asbestos cement
  • Brake drums
  • Gaskets
  • Insulation
  • Lagging
  • Packing
  • Pipes
  • Pumps
  • Rope
  • Steam traps
  • Valves

Boilers used in buildings for hot water may likely contain asbestos, particularly in older buildings. Likely locations where boiler workers may have been exposed to asbestos include:

  • Basements
  • Boiler rooms
  • Chemical plants
  • Commercial buildings
  • Engine rooms
  • Factories
  • Homes
  • Oil refineries
  • Paper mills
  • Power facilities
  • Schools
  • Ships
  • Shipyards
  • Steel mills

Compensation for Boilermakers With Mesothelioma

If you or a loved one has recently received a mesothelioma diagnosis, it's important to know that you have the option to seek legal compensation. This can help ease the financial burden of medical expenses and provide long-term security for your family. A mesothelioma law firm practiced in boilermakers with asbestos exposure, like Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney and Meisenkothen (ELSM), can offer valuable assistance by thoroughly evaluating and pursuing all available options for you.

Asbestos Trust Funds

As awareness of the hazards linked to asbestos grew, a substantial number of asbestos product manufacturers declared bankruptcy. They then established mesothelioma trust funds to compensate victims of asbestos-related diseases due to exposure to their products.

Boilermakers and boiler workers with mesothelioma can seek financial support through the submission of claims to cover medical expenses and lost income. The legal team at ELSM is dedicated to assisting individuals in identifying the appropriate trust fund for their specific circumstances and guiding them through the claims process.

Lawsuits

Mesothelioma lawsuits are a legal recourse available to boilermakers who have suffered asbestos exposure. Boilermakers with asbestos exposure who have developed an asbestos-related disease can pursue personal injury lawsuits against manufacturers who knowingly sold harmful asbestos products.

Successful lawsuits can result in significant settlements or court-awarded verdicts, which can be crucial in covering expenses such as medical treatments, lost wages, and other related costs. It's essential for individuals affected by mesothelioma to choose a lawyer who has a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes.

It is common for asbestos lawsuits to settle before going to court. Our attorneys will advise you on the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing a mesothelioma settlement for your asbestos case.

Workers’ Compensation

Workers' compensation is a vital state-regulated program to support employees affected by work-related injuries or illnesses. This includes individuals in high-risk occupations exposed to asbestos, such as boilermakers with mesothelioma. 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 a boilermaker, contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Mesothelioma Lawyers for Boilermakers

If you have received a diagnosis of mesothelioma, a life-altering illness often caused by asbestos exposure, it is vital to have the right support and guidance as you navigate the next steps. This includes having a seasoned attorney by your side who is experienced with the various options for mesothelioma compensation. Boilermakers are no exception to the high risk of asbestos exposure, and it is crucial for them to be aware of their legal options in such cases.

When it comes to dealing with mesothelioma cases for boilermakers, experienced lawyers truly understand the ins and outs of your profession and the specific challenges you face. They have the determination to ensure that you receive the rightful compensation, whether it requires navigating asbestos trust funds or taking legal action. Partnering with a mesothelioma law firm like ELSM empowers you to focus on your priorities while they aggressively advocate for you and your family.

FAQs

How are boilermakers exposed to asbestos?

Boilermakers are exposed to asbestos through the materials they manipulate while making, maintaining, and handling boilers. These workers may have been exposed to asbestos in various materials, including asbestos cement, valves, and pipes, particularly if they were employed before the mid-1980s when safety regulations were less stringent or worked on older boilers after this time.

Are boilermakers at risk for developing mesothelioma?

Certain jobs put workers at higher risk of being exposed to asbestos and developing mesothelioma, such as boilermakers. Studies have reported elevated levels of asbestos diseases for several types of boiler workers, including boilermakers, boiler technicians, and boiler welders.

Sources

  1. Till JE, Beck HL, Boice JD, Mohler HJ, Mumma MT, Aanenson JW, et al. Asbestos exposure and mesothelioma mortality among atomic veterans. Int J Radiat Biol. 2022;98(4):781–5.
  2. Danielsen TE, Langård S, Andersen A. Incidence of cancer among Norwegian boiler welders. Occup Environ Med. 1996 Apr;53(4):231–4.

Request a Free Case Evaluation

Request a free case evaluation now if you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma. The evaluation will cost you nothing. Our lawyers will travel to visit you at your convenience or conference call with you over the phone. We understand how difficult a time this is for you and will assist in any way that we can. You can also call us toll-free at 1-800-336-0086 at any time.