Over several decades, machinists have encountered a notable occupational hazard, specifically the heightened risk of cancer due to their consistent exposure to asbestos. This risk has become an inherent part of their profession, and it has been a concerning and enduring challenge for those who work in this field.
Your well-being and livelihood as a machinist are of utmost importance. If you suspect that your exposure to asbestos during your career has caused health issues, do not hesitate to get in touch with Bailey & Glasser, LLP. Our group of experienced lawyers has extensive experience with asbestos cases, just like yours. We’re here to help.
How are Machinists at Risk?
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral known for its insulating and heat-resistant properties, was once widely used in various industrial applications, including within the machinery and equipment machinists commonly operate. As a result, machinists have been exposed to asbestos fibers during the course of their work, particularly when working with machinery components that contained asbestos-containing materials. Additionally, some of the protective equipment provided to machinists may have contained asbestos.
Asbestos Sources
In many cases, especially with older machinery and equipment, asbestos-containing materials may have been replaced or removed during maintenance or renovation work to comply with safety regulations. However, it’s still essential to be aware of the potential presence of asbestos when working with or around older equipment and to take appropriate precautions to minimize exposure risks.
As well as machinery containing asbestos, machinists may have
In the past, some PPE used by machinists may have contained asbestos or asbestos-containing materials due to the properties of asbestos that made it useful in various applications:
- Fire-resistant clothing: Asbestos was valued for its heat resistance and fireproofing properties. Therefore, some fire-resistant clothing worn by machinists could have contained asbestos fibers, especially in the form of fireproof gloves or aprons.
- Heat-resistant gloves: Machinists often used heat-resistant gloves to handle hot materials and equipment. These gloves could have been made with asbestos fibers to enhance their heat resistance.
- Insulating materials: Some PPE used by machinists, such as sleeves or aprons, may have contained asbestos insulation to protect against high temperatures or molten metal splashes.
- Welding blankets and curtains: Asbestos-containing materials were also used in welding blankets and curtains, which machinists might have used to protect themselves from sparks and splatter during welding operations.
- Respiratory protection: While not technically PPE, respiratory protection is essential in many machining environments. Some older respirators and dust masks had filters that contained asbestos.
Asbestos Health Risks
The inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers can have severe health consequences, including the development of asbestos-related cancers such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These health risks have cast a shadow over the profession of machinists for many years.
- Asbestosis: This is a chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Scar tissue builds up in the lungs and impairs their ability to function, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, persistent cough, and chest pain. As the disease progresses, the lungs’ capacity to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide decreases, which can lead to respiratory failure.
- Mesothelioma: This is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) but can also affect the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and heart (pericardium). Mesothelioma is directly linked to asbestos exposure, and its onset can occur decades after exposure.
- Lung cancer: People who have been exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing lung cancer, especially if they smoke. Symptoms include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and weight loss.
- Pleural disorders: Inhalation of asbestos can lead to pleural plaques (areas of thickening on the pleura), pleural effusions (fluid buildup between the lungs and chest wall), and diffuse pleural thickening. These conditions can impair lung function and cause breathing difficulties.
- Other cancers: Although less common, asbestos exposure has also been linked to cancers of the larynx (voice box) and ovaries.
Manufacturers of Asbestos-Containing Machines
Many manufacturers worldwide produced machines and equipment that contained asbestos in the past. Asbestos was commonly used as an insulating and heat-resistant material, and it found its way into various products and machinery.
Some well-known manufacturers that historically produced machinery and equipment containing asbestos include:
- Armstrong International, Inc.: Some products Armstrong International, Inc. created include air vents, steam traps, humification systems, and pipe strainers.
- B.F. Goodrich: B.F. Goodrich made machinery parts used in factories, such as conveying systems and transportation belts.
- Combustion Engineering: Combustion Engineering was founded in 1912 and produced boilers, insulation, and cement across various industries.
- Flexitallic Gasket Company: Flexitallic’s spiral-wound gaskets were often supplied to factories and industrial settings.
- Foster Wheeler Corporation: Known for manufacturing high-temperature components such as boilers, gaskets, steam generators, and heaters.
- Honeywell: Honeywell brake pads and linings were commonly used in factory machinery.
- John Crane Company: The company’s range of mechanical sealing systems is well-recognized in the chemical, paper and pulp, pharmaceutical, mining, and gas industries.
- Leslie Controls, Inc.: Produced insulation, pipes, gaskets, steam water heaters, and control valves for machinery.
- Pneumo Abex: Known for producing brakes, hydraulic systems, and fluid power parts.
- Raybestos: Raybestos created brakes, clutches, and valves used in factory machinery.
- Yarway Corporation: Specialized in the steam power industry, creating products such as valves, gaskets, steam traps, and joints.
These companies, along with many others, have since taken measures to address asbestos-related issues and have often removed or replaced asbestos-containing materials in their products. They have also implemented safety measures to protect workers from asbestos exposure. Additionally, regulations and public awareness about the dangers of asbestos have led to a significant reduction in its use in recent decades.
Final Thoughts
You’ve shown resilience throughout your career, and now it’s time to let us fight for your rights and well-being. Bailey & Glasser, LLP is here to stand by your side and help you on your path. Your health matters, and we are ready to take action on your behalf.
Request a free consultation today to discuss your case and learn more about the options available to you.
