Railroad Cancer
Railroads employ millions of gallons of diesel fuel to transport freight trains over long distances. This highly toxic diesel exhaust contains carcinogens such as arsenic, dioxin and benzene.
You could be qualified for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) if you are a railroad worker who has been diagnosed with cancer. Our skilled Houston railroad lawyers can help you get fair financial compensation for the pain you've endured.
Benzene
Benzene, a solvent for industrial use is found in the exhaust from diesel fuel. Many railroad workers, such as conductors and engineers, machinists and electricians, work in areas that are exposed to diesel fumes.
Certain people can develop cancer following just one exposure to benzene. Specifically, it is known to cause acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The cancer develops in the bone marrow and then it spreads to blood. It is more common in men than it is in women , and can be fatal if it is not treated.
The dangers of benzene stem from the fact that it could affect the immune system. This can cause various health issues including infections and a diminished capability to fight off germs. Benzene can also cause bone weakness and increase the risk of arthritis.
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a more serious negative side effect of benzene. Railroad Workers Cancer Lawsuit of cancer begins in the bone marrow and grows into blood. It may also affect the spleen and other parts of your body.
A study from 2015 revealed that even low levels benzene increases the risk of developing leukemia by a third. Researchers examined the medical records of 25000 Norwegian oil-rig workers who had been on the job for more than 20 days.
Despite the danger of exposure to benzene is still utilized in many commercial and industrial processes. There are ways to limit exposure and prevent poisoning from benzene.
Wearing protective eyewear and clothes is one way to protect your eyes. This will help to keep benzene out of the eyes and nose. A respirator is recommended whenever it is possible.
If you suspect you have been exposed to benzene, you must immediately notify your doctor. This will help you recognize any signs and minimize the risk of dying due to benzene poisoning.
Benzene can also cause brain damage, as well as other forms of cancer. It can cause confusion and memory loss. If you are suffering from this condition it can cause an impairment in your quality of life and make it difficult for you to perform your duties at home or at work.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a toxic mineral that has been known to cause many serious diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. It is found in a wide range of materials that are used in construction, including pipe insulation, floor tiles.
As the result asbestos exposure is one of the greatest health risks to people who work in the railway industry. Railroad workers can become exposed to asbestos in many different ways, and some of the most prevalent are:
One exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, among other cancers that can be life-threatening. The cancers that develop in the lungs or the membrane that covers the lungs and abdominal cavity (the mesothelium) are usually fatal.
Fortunately, most people who are exposed to asbestos fibers do not develop any of the negative health issues that are linked to asbestos. Most fibers will be expelled through coughing or in the form of mucus. This helps protect the lungs. There are asbestos fibers that can remain in your lungs for years , or even for decades.
While the health effects of this condition can differ from person-to-person, it can cause chest discomfort, shortness of breath as well as breathing problems, tightness in the chest and chest pain. It can also cause problems with swallowing or weight loss.
Children exposed to asbestos are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma and other types of cancer. They are more likely to breathe dangerous fibers through the mouth and nose. The reason for this is because their lung's development is still in its early stages.
They breathe at a higher rate, and because their lungs have a larger volume-to-surface ratio than adults', they can inhale more asbestos fibers.
Young children are more likely to breathe in the harmful fibers than adults, and are especially at risk if they have been near railroad vehicles. If they have a relative who is suffering from mesothelioma are at a higher chance of developing the disease.
Creosote
During the 19th Century creosote was created to help protect wood from rot as well as insect damage. It also saved railroad companies money by cutting down on the cost of replacing wood. Creosote can still be used to treat wood products. It can also be used to protect log homes and marine pilings.
It is a poisonous chemical that has been linked to a variety of cancers. Some of these include esophageal, lung, and larynx cancers.
The health risks of creosote-related exposure are especially high for those working in the wood preservation, coke production and asphalt industries. Chimney sweeps, as well as those who work physically, such as rail track maintenance and construction could also be exposed to creosote.
Exposure to creosote can cause irritation of the eyes and skin, chemical burns, eyelid spasms convulsions, mental confusion unconsciousness, kidney issues, and even death. It can also cause lung problems and respiratory problems, similar to smoking cigarettes.
Creosote is a chemical that is made from coal tar and can be absorbed through the skin. It can also be consumed through food that is contaminated or water.
One of the major sources of exposure to creosote among railroad employees is working around a hazardous waste site. Railroad Cancer Lawyer contain huge amounts of creosote and can be harmful to water, soil and air.
Another reason for exposure to creosote for rail workers is working in the wood treatment industry. Many wood products, such as lumber and fences are treated with creosote.
These workers are often not protected by protective equipment, which can expose them for creosote or other toxic substances. This can lead to serious health conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome and cancer.
Creosote is a liquid that is oily which ranges from amber to black in color. It has an acidic, burning taste. It is not a buoyant substance in water and has specific gravity of 1.037 to 1.087. It is a mixture polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and phenolic compounds, as well as other chemicals. The most commonly used creosote type is coal tar, however different forms are also utilized.
Diesel Exhaust
Diesel exhaust is a by-product from the combustion of fuel. It is released into the air when you operate vehicles equipped with diesel engines. It is also released from diesel locomotives, construction and farm equipment, generators, ships and other industrial equipment.
People who work with diesel exhaust may be more at chance of developing cancer. Railroad Workers Cancer Lawsuit is due to the fact that they are more susceptible to being exposed than those who work in other sectors.
Certain studies have shown that exposure to diesel exhaust can cause lung cancer in laboratory animals like rats. In some instances, diesel exhaust can alter the DNA in cells which make them more likely to grow and develop cancer.
Studies on the effects of diesel exhaust on humans have also proven that exposure to diesel exhaust can trigger many health problems which include respiratory disorders like chronic bronchitis or emphysema as well as blood system diseases such as bladder cancers, larynx (voice box) as well as stomach, esophagus and the pancreas. Some cancers of the prostate, stomach, and breast have been caused by diesel exhaust.
Diesel exhaust is regarded as a carcinogen by the American Cancer Society. It is classified as such by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (part of the World Health Organization).
Diesel exhaust exposure may pose a significant risk to employees who work with big engines and machines, such as truck drivers or operators of toll booths. They could also be at risk if they spend too much time in areas where heavy diesel traffic occurs (e.g. cities or highways).
Railroad workers who maintain and build tracks and yards may be exposed to diesel fumes when they work near diesel engines or other machines. These fumes are particularly dangerous when they get into the cabins of locomotives or other machinery.
A study of laboratory rats revealed that exposure to diesel exhaust can cause numerous lung tumors and inflammation changes. Certain of these tumors were comparable to lung adenocarcinoma. It is a form of cancer that occurs when cells in the lungs grow rapidly and become malignant.