MCA Staff Writers
Presenting Up-to-Date Mesothelioma Topics
2 0 1 3Sep03
While many citizens enjoyed an extra day off and huge retail sales on Labor Day, it’s important to remember the real reason we observe this day. Labor Day was created to celebrate the hard work put forth by American citizens and to recognize their economic and social contributions to our country. Labor Day is also an appropriate time to recognize the dangers that many American citizens face in their respective industries. While there are many ways that workers can be injured or killed on the job, the number 1 cause of occupational-related cancer continues to be exposure to asbestos, even 30 years after the peak of its use. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma cancer after a long latency period of 20-50 years and for some industries, asbestos exposure was a regular part of the job.
Here are some industries where exposure to this deadly mineral can be common:
Auto Mechanics
Prior to the 1970s, asbestos was commonly used as an insulator for many auto parts, like brakes, gaskets, and transmission parts. Asbestos is known for being heat resistant, so it became an ideal product to use in areas like braking where high friction and high heat were created. Changing brakes and clutch systems are a common job for auto mechanics and while respiratory gear was provided, some mechanics may have felt that the mask “gets in the way” of their work and they aren’t worn. Not only mechanics, but also weekend mechanics that restore vintage vehicles are in danger since asbestos is found in older vehicles.
Firefighters
Firefighters have an inherently dangerous job to begin with, but a high risk factor that often goes unnoticed in comparison to their other workplace hazards is exposure to asbestos. Since asbestos was used in older homes, schools and commercial buildings built prior to the 1970s, the dangerous fiber can be found in almost every corner of these buildings. After a fire, the disturbed asbestos fibers can become airborne, putting the firefighters, cleanup crews, and surrounding communities in danger of exposure.
Bulldozer Operators and Demolition Experts
When communities and cities undergo periods of growth and restoration, there will often times be old buildings and homes needing to be torn down for new structures to be built. While today’s regulations require asbestos to be removed prior to demolition of a building, there is always the risk of exposure to asbestos and other dangerous toxins that can happen to bulldozer operators during demolition. Older heavy machinery used in demolition and construction, like bulldozers, excavators, and cranes, also have many parts that contained asbestos for insulation, so proper protection must be used when operating and fixing the machines.
Armed Services
For veterans from all branches of the U.S. armed forces, asbestos exposure can be an issue for their health. Especially for those who served in the Navy, asbestos was used most heavily on ships. For those currently serving, the risk is not any lesser despite heavy regulations on asbestos use in the U.S. because asbestos use is not regulated in many other countries, like Iraq, India and some Asian nations. Hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of “white” (chrysotile) asbestos has been imported into Iraq.
While many are enjoying the unofficial end of the summer with Labor Day barbeques and shopping sprees, lets not forget what Labor Day is truly about—recognizing the hard work and dedication of the American worker and raising awareness about the dangers of working conditions that can lead to serious health repercussions.
< Older
0 comments:
Post a Comment