Asbestos Exposure for Jewelers and Mesothelioma Claims
Though asbestos use has been limited over the past few decades, it can still be found in various industries. Louisville residents should know that one of those industries is the jewelry industry.
Can Jewelers Be Exposed to Asbestos?
Yes, jewelers who used asbestos soldering forms or worked with materials containing asbestos may have been exposed to dangerous fibers.
Even limited exposure in the jewelry workshop setting can increase risk of mesothelioma years later.
This means that anyone working in a jewelry store, including sales associates who never actually make or repair items, can also be exposed to asbestos when those fibers are released in the air.
Real Example of a Mesothelioma Case Linked to Jewelry Work
The first jewelry-related mesothelioma case was reported on back in 1992 by the American Journal of Industrial Medicine, so the issue has been known for a while
It involved a 61-year-old man who had been a jeweler for 35 years. He was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, or cancer of the thin lining separating the lung cavity and chest wall. The cancer spread to one of the man’s lungs, so he underwent a pneumonectomy, or removal of an infected lung.
How Jewelers Are Exposed to Asbestos
In his case, as in many others, loose asbestos fibers were inhaled or ingested during the soldering process. Exposure can happen several ways, including:
● Using a clay-like mixture of asbestos and water to hold two metal pieces together when soldering.
● Handling materials that contain loose asbestos fibers.
● Breathing in fibers released into the air during the soldering process.
Some forms of asbestos are less dangerous than others. But even those who are exposed to the “safe” forms can nonetheless develop mesothelioma.
While the American Journal of Industrial Medicine has called for asbestos soldering forms to be replaced, the fact is that generations of jewelers have already been exposed to the mineral. Mesothelioma takes up to 50 years to develop, so cases of it will likely appear in the future.
Legal Options for Workers Exposed to Asbestos
When mesothelioma can be traced back to workplace conditions, injured workers can file a personal injury claim or workers’ compensation claim. This is the point where they may want to get legal counsel.
With a lawyer, they may be able to prove that their employer knew about the danger of asbestos exposure yet did nothing about it. Third-party investigators might come in to gather all the needed proof before the lawyer goes on to negotiate a settlement.
You can reach our team here at Satterley & Kelley, PLLC by calling our Louisville office at 502-589-5600 or toll-free at 855-385-9532. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.
FAQs About Asbestos Exposure for Jewelers
Can jewelers get mesothelioma at work?
Yes, jewelers who used asbestos soldering materials or worked in shops where asbestos was present may develop mesothelioma years later.
How long does mesothelioma take to develop?
Mesothelioma can take decades to appear after exposure, sometimes 20 to 50 years.
Can workers file a claim for asbestos exposure?
In many cases, workers exposed to asbestos on the job may be able to file a personal injury or workers’ compensation claim. If that business no longer exists, workers may be entitled to compensation from an asbestos trust fund.