Getting Workers’ Compensation for Asbestos Exposure

Friday, November 22, 2013

Getting Workers’ Compensation for Asbestos Exposure

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Asbestos is something that many workers have to handle on a regular basis, but their employers usually provide them with the right equipment. Unfortunately, there are many instances in which workers are expected to work with asbestos without the proper precautions, exposing them to asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma. Workers’ compensation attorneys are available to represent victims of asbestos exposure resulting from employer negligence.

A Recent Lawsuit

On September 13, an asbestos lawsuit was filed against Empire District Electric Co. in Missouri. Employees claimed that they were dangerously exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk for asbestos-related injuries including mesothelioma. The company allegedly asked the employees to remove
asbestos and other dangerous materials from a power plant without the proper training or protective gear required.

The exposure supposedly occurred when an employee unwound spools of insulated wiring and noticed that the insulation began to crack and peel off. Inspections of the material revealed that the substance was asbestos, but the employees handling it were still instructed to eliminate the materials.
As a result, the employees believe that they have or will suffer from asbestos-related health problems such as cancer.

The lawsuit claims that Empire either knew about the presence of asbestos or should have known about it, and could have easily prevented exposure.

Working with Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

If you or other employees believe you have been wrongfully exposed to asbestos, take action against negligent employers by contacting a workers’ compensation lawyer to represent you. You may be entitled to full compensation for present injuries as well as negligence.