Railroad Asthma Settlements

Asthma is a major public health problem. It causes death and disability for all ages. It is disproportionately prevalent in minorities and those with low incomes.

To better understand the fundamental mechanisms that lead to asthma and to develop strategies to prevent it research is necessary. It is also important to improve Asthma cancer education particularly in communities (homes and schools, workplaces, and apartment structures), where patients may not have much control over their surroundings.

Diesel Exhaust

Diesel fumes are frequently breathed in by railroad workers. Exposure for long periods can cause a variety of ailments. Asthma settlements is a chronic respiratory disorder that is characterized by wheezing and trouble breathing, can lead to the development of other medical conditions like heart disease, bronchitis and Emphysema. Our railroad Asthma Settlement lawyers have assisted people who suffer from these conditions to recover damages from companies who negligently exposed them dangerous workplace chemicals.

As a gas, diesel exhaust consists of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides along with particulates. Even those who do not smoke may experience breathing issues due to these particles. They also contribute towards the production of acid rain, ground-level ozone and increased carbon levels in the atmosphere.

Railroad workers also are exposed to benzene, a chemical that has been associated with cancers of the blood and lymphoma, including acute myeloid, myelodysplastic disorder and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The volatile organic compound that is found in diesel exhaust and fuels. It was widely employed in the railroad industry as a solvent. Railroad workers employed products that contained benzene such as Liquid Wrench and CRC Brakleen to clean equipment. Locomotive engineers worked in cabs for locomotives that were not well ventilated and were exposed to diesel fumes into the cabin through open and cracked doors. This was especially relevant when the cabs were old and less energy efficient.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a form of minerals. It was once a popular material in construction because of its fire-resistant, corrosion-resistant and insulation properties. It is associated with a variety of health issues. Asbestos exposure increases the risk of mesothelioma, lung cancer and other diseases that affect the chest or lungs. The signs of asbestos exposure are fluid accumulation around the lungs, breathing problems, chronic cough, and pain or lumps in the abdomen.

Asbestosis is by far the most well-known form of lung damage caused by asbestos. This happens when microscopic fibres are trapped in the lungs, creating scar tissue or fibrosis. This scar tissue does not perform as well as healthy lungs and makes breathing difficult. Asbestosis can also cause the lining around the lungs to become thicker and thicker, a condition known as plaque pleural.

Workers who repair or work on train engines, equipment and other machinery could be exposed to asbestos. In the course of their work they may breathe in asbestos particles in the air such as ballast rock, granite dust and harsh cleaning solvents creosote treated railroad ties, and crystalline silica. These inhalations can also cause problems with Asthma injury settlements and other health conditions. The highly experienced lawyers at Levy Konigsberg understand the impact these diseases can have on the lives of railroad workers and their families. Our law firm defends the rights of those who have been injured by asbestos and other toxic substances working near or around trains.

Solvents

The solvents made of chemicals employed by railroad workers may be toxic. They can cause mesothelioma and respiratory problems as well as skin issues. Many of these chemicals can be flammable and may create a fire hazard if mixed with air. They can also be absorbed via the skin or inhaled, creating an increased risk of illness.

Solvents are liquid chemicals that dissolve other substances. They can be organic or inorganic, and generally contain oxygen and carbon. They can be grouped into polar, nonpolar protic and polar solvents based on their molecular properties.

These chemicals are used in many manufacturing and cleaning processes, such as abrasives and paint removers. They are also used in varnishes, dyes, and other products. These chemicals are also used in a myriad of pharmaceutical products, from aspirin to cough syrups to topical ointments. For instance, butyl acetate helps purify penicillin by preventing impurities from entering the solution while the active ingredient is separated from it.

Nonpolar solvents include petroleum ether and methyl chloride. They are generally flammable and create irritating vapors. The protic solvents that are polar are more environmental hazardous, like methanol and acetone. The Protic polar solvents are more dangerous to the environment and can be carcinogenic, such as benzene and carbon tetrachloride.

Solvents pose a risk for railroad workers in a variety of ways. Solvents can be swallowed, inhaled or absorbent through the skin. When harmful solvents are introduced into the body, they could be absorbed into bloodstreams and passed to the brain, where they could cause a condition called toxic encephalopathy. This is a kind of permanent brain damage that has been associated with exposure to solvents, and is sometimes referred to as "railroad dementia." Railroaders can sue under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) in the event that they believe their railroad's employer was negligent in not protecting their employees from workplace hazards.

Silica

Silica is a form of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It is found in soil, sand and granite, and more than 95% of the world's rock. It's also found in glass ceramics, and other products. When these materials are cut, chipped, crushed or ground, they release crystalline silica dust that can be breathed into. These particles are abrasive, and they can scratch the lung's surface. This causes scar tissue which reduces the capacity of the lungs to absorb oxygen and may cause life-threatening lung conditions like silicosis. It can also lead to chronic obstructive respiratory disease, lung cancer and kidney disease. Smoking compounds the risk.

A small number of rodent studies suggest that silica in aqueous form is essential for Asthma Settlement health, however no Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) has been established. It appears to be well taken in from food and is found in a variety of green vegetables, such as one cup of green beans which contains 7 milligrams silica. Oatbran, brown rice and lentils also contain a lot of silica. Beer is also a source of silica. A two-tablespoon amount contains 4.77 milligrams.

Construction workers, miners, and oil and gas engineers are at risk of exposure to respirable crystalline silicon. All states and territories have laws on work health and safety, which define the responsibility of employers and employees. There are many types of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) but it only works if it is properly fitted and is used in a safe manner.