Power Plant Workers
Power plants constructed in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, and even the 1980s are often loaded with asbestos and asbestos containing materials. This has been the case for decades because the very nature of these facilities is to disburse energy across the region. Doing so generates heat, and asbestos was long considered the premier fire-proof and heat-resistant mineral of choice for equipment manufacturers and power plant owners.
Since asbestos has been used widely in power plants, those employed in these facilities are considered to be at an elevated risk for occupational exposure to asbestos. This is especially true if the work involves the destruction or maintenance of asbestos materials including insulation, gaskets, and packing, since both activities can produce asbestos dust.
This is most commonly seen among those employed in trades like:
- Pipefitters
- Insulators
- Electricians
- Boilermakers
- Welders
- Millwrights
- Maintenance Workers
- Operators
- Other laborers working in close proximity to asbestos
Asbestos Use in Power Plants
Power plants are typically the main jobsite of three different types of professionals – machine operators, distributors and dispatchers. Those employed in these trades are responsible for the management of several power-generating machines, including turbines, boilers and generators that create and distribute power.
Due to the nature of their work, these pieces of equipment have traditionally been built with asbestos products. One key reason for this is the fact that power plant equipment must be protected against risk for combustion, heat, or fire damage. This includes valves and pumps, which were typically sealed with gaskets made from asbestos products, as well as pipes – many of which were fitted with asbestos insulation.
Additionally, most power plants tended to be constructed using asbestos fire-proofed roofing and flooring materials, many of which were constructed or renovated in the proximity of workers. When this occurs, it generates significant amounts of asbestos dust, which is easily carried through the air. The asbestos particles can be inhaled or swallowed and become lodged in the abdomen or lungs, causing scarring and other damage that paves the way for respiratory disease. Power plants throughout West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Virginia often used significant amounts of asbestos insulation, mud, gaskets, packing, and other materials in the various equipment and construction that occurred there.
Legal Solutions
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with respiratory disease linked to asbestos exposure, including mesothelioma, it is in your best interest to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Only a professional specializing in asbestos-related cases can assess your situation help you build a strong, convincing case that yields a successful end result.
At Antion McGee Law Group, PLLC, our attorneys are highly qualified when it comes to guiding your asbestos case, especially if you have recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer. Our firm has built a successful history by being an advocate for individuals affected by asbestos disease, and we are committed to guiding your case every step of the way. From conducting a thorough investigation into your occupational history, to coordinating with your medical care team, our attorneys will leave no stone unturned as we work with you towards a successful outcome.
Do not delay – our mesothelioma attorneys are prepared to support you and your loved ones today. We will meet with you in your hospital or home, should your current medical condition prevent you from traveling to meet with us. To get started, we recommend you call us today at (304) 807-0739 to schedule a preliminary consultation so that we can assess your case.
