Mesothelioma and Furnacemen, Smeltermen, and Pourers
Furnacemen, Smeltermen, and Pourers Are at Risk of Contracting Mesothelioma
A recent report published by worksafebc.com speaks about a former smelter man who died of mesothelioma in April 2007. This man was exposed to airborne asbestos during the 60s and 70s when he was working in a plant. The disease surfaced after a period of 30 years and it ultimately led to his death.
How Does Someone Get Mesothelioma?
One of the first questions most patients ask themselves when they are diagnosed with a disease like mesothelioma is this: “When was I exposed?” The answer to this question is important because it is essential to pinpoint the source of exposure to nail a claim. A successful suit may not give you your health, but it will pay your medical bills and may even ensure that family members dependent on you will lead a comfortable life.
When Does Exposure to Asbestos Occur?
Most people who are exposed to asbestos do not know that they run the risk of exposure. Furnace men, smelters, and pourers work with fire under scalding temperatures. In most companies, such workers are protected from the intense heat through the extensive use of asbestos. Many pieces of equipment have a layer of asbestos insulation. For instance, asbestos insulation was regularly used on steam pipes, ladles, and high temperature refractory furnace linings. Blankets and cloth with asbestos lining were used to cool metal castings and pipes. For additional protection, workers wore protective gear made from asbestos and this poses the worst kind of threat. From asbestos-lined apron and overalls, to gloves and leggings, these workers wore quite a pile of asbestos on themselves. A small rip or tear in the lining is enough to send deadly asbestos particles floating in the air, and from there to the bodies of those wearing it.
Obviously, workers who rely on asbestos for thermal insulation experience high amounts of exposure for prolonged periods. This puts them at a very high risk of developing asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.






