Railroad Settlement - Interstitial Lung Disease Long-term railroad workers are at risk for occupational lung diseases like pulmonary fibrisis. Before 2010, safety regulations only rarely required that workers wear protective masks. Workers were exposed to exhaust fumes and dangerous fumes emitted by idle engines. Asbestos exposure as well as diesel exhaust and other workplace hazards may cause interstitial pulmonary disease. It often takes decades for symptoms to manifest which makes it difficult to draw an immediate link between work-related health and disease. Asbestos Asbestos is comprised of minerals that are naturally occurring and are popular in the construction sector for their fire-resistant as well as their corrosion resistant and insulation properties. The exposure to these tiny fibers increases workers' chances of developing lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer that grows in the linings that protect organs) and asbestosis (scarring of the lung). The signs of an asbestos-related illness typically take between 15 and 30 years to show up. When asbestos is disturbed the fibers split into tiny, elongated particles known as fibrils. These fibrils can be breathed in easily and lodge deep inside the lungs. If they cause irritation, the lungs develop scar tissue which makes breathing difficult. Exposed to high levels asbestos that is in the air over long periods of time also increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is rare and aggressive type of lung cancer that affects the lining of lungs. Asbestos is now banned from use, however railroad companies frequently challenge FELA claims that are made by railroad workers and their families due to the fact that they knew that the material could pose a risk for employees. An increasing amount of evidence suggests that many railroads knowingly exposed workers to asbestos even after they realized that the substance caused mesothelioma and other illnesses. This could be negligence which is what entitles railroad workers and their families to compensation. Contact an Virginia railroad injury attorney today to learn more about filing a FELA lawsuit if you've been on trains before. Diesel Exhaust Since the 1940s diesel engines have been the main source of power for trains in America. Before that, trains utilized coal to create toxic black soot which workers inhaled regularly. Diesel exhaust fumes consist of combustible gasses and ultrafine particles. The chemical compounds in the gas component of diesel exhaust change to liquid or vapor forms and are then carried through the air as tiny particles. These particulates are inhaled by the lungs, which causes irritation to lung tissue over time. If this happens, it can result in a lung condition known as railroad worker's interstitial respiratory disorder (ILD). Long-term exposure of diesel exhaust can also increase the risk of COPD. Diesel engine smoke contains thousands of different chemicals including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide. They also produce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which can cause cancer. The particulate fraction of diesel exhaust is made up of fine particles, which can irritate and inflame the lungs. The toxins are still present in the air in spite of the fact that diesel pollution has been significantly reduced through the use of clean fuels and catalytic convertors. They can cause the formation of ozone at ground level, which can cause breathing problems for people and cause damage to trees, crops, and other vegetation. They can also trigger acid rain, which can harm the water quality of lakes, streams and rivers. Smoking Smoking is the primary cause of several serious health issues. Smoking damages the tiny air sacs that line the lungs, known as alveoli. This reduces the lungs' capacity to take in oxygen, making breathing more difficult. Pulmonary fibrosis is an interstitial lung condition characterized by scarring of the lungs which prevents the lungs from supplying oxygen to the rest of the body. The condition is progressive, and can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, coughing and clubbing fingers and toes. It could lead to death if left untreated. Railroad workers are at high risk for interstitial lung diseases like asthma, pulmonary fibroids, emphysema, and COPD. They are also exposed to asbestos fumes that are toxic and other workplace-related materials and diesel exhaust fumes. These toxic exposures can cause a range of health conditions, including mesothelioma and even cancer. By ensuring adequate respiratory protection, railroad companies could have slowed the development of lung diseases that can be fatal and debilitating. Failure to do so is negligence under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). Other Exposures There are a variety of other conditions that could lead to interstitial lung disease like rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Certain medications may also increase the likelihood of developing pulmonary fibrosis and other respiratory problems. You are exposed to many dangers, including oil chemicals, and fumes, if you work in the rail yard. railroad bipa settlement may cause silicosis, a condition that causes scarring of the lung similar to asbestosis. If the condition becomes worse it could result in right-sided cardiac failure (cor pulmonale) due to the fact that your heart will have to perform harder to pump blood through blocked arteries. This can ultimately lead to respiratory failure and death.
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