Malignant mesothelioma, in nearly all its forms is almost always attributed to asbestos exposure. The most common type of exposures occur in jobsite settings. The following jobsites are particularly asbestos-prone. While certainly exposures can occur in other ways and simply working these industries does not guarantee and exposure, these individuals should be conscious of the possible risk.
ShipyardsShipyards are one of the most common industries for asbestos exposures. Asbestos was used extensively prior to its federal ban in nearly all sea-faring vessels. Many mesothelioma patients were exposed to asbestos during the shipbuilding surge of World War Two and in naval shipyards in subsequent years. Asbestos was used frequently in boiler rooms, piping, and nearly all other aspects of shipbuilding because it was a good insulator. Often, repairmen and shipbuilders had the most direct contact with these materials, leaving them most at risk.
RailroadsLike ships, railroads featured many products that contained asbestos. Asbestos was used to insulate rail cars in both passenger and freight trains, particularly for temperature sensitive cabins, such as passenger and food cars. Some rail yard workers and mechanics have been adversely exposed to asbestos materials. Those who worked in the vicinity of aging refrigeration or other insulation material are likely those most at risk.
FirefightersFirefighters come into contact with asbestos materials perhaps more frequently than any other materials simply due to the prevalence of the material in home and building construction. In fact, nearly 80% of buildings built prior to 1978 have at least some asbestos-containing materials. Firefighters will frequently come into contact with asbestos materials that have been damaged by fire or decay, which is when many are most dangerous. During both the initial stage of the firefighting and in the cleanup phase thereafter, firefighters are at risk. During the later stages, firefighters may come in direct contact with these materials at a time when they may not be wearing all of their cumbersome protective equipment.
In any event, it is important for any individual who believes they may have been exposed to asbestos to consult a physician for a proper diagnosis of an asbestos-related illness. Medical and legal support systems do exist if you were wrongly exposed. Early detection is the most important factor in determining the availability of mesothelioma treatment options.