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Working on the Railroad Can Increase Your Risk for COPD

If you work on the railroad, chances are high that you have been exposed to diesel exhaust fumes over the course of your career. Studies have found a link between long-term railroad work and higher rates of COPD. Exposure to these fumes may cause toxic encephalopathy that could cause permanent brain damage. It can also increase the risk of lung cancer as well as other health conditions.

Asbestos

Railroad workers may be exposed to asbestos and other harmful substances when working around trains or on the train. Asbestos, a grouping of naturally occurring minerals, was once widely used because of its strength as well as its fire-resistant and corrosion-resistant properties as well in its insulation. When asbestos is disturbed, it breaks up into microscopic fibers that can be breathed into the lungs. This can cause serious respiratory illnesses including pleural plaques, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

People who are exposed to asbestos may also develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which causes breathing difficulties. They might also suffer from Pleural effusions, which happen when fluid builds up inside the lungs' lining (pleura).

In addition to asbestos exposure, railroad workers may be exposed to a variety of toxic chemicals and fumes. This includes harsh cleaning solvents used on railroad equipment, creosote and weed killers applied to railroad ties and other irritating substances.

The attorneys of Doran and Murphy PLLC have represented many railroad workers who had occupational illnesses. COPD asbestosis, mesothelioma, COPD and lung cancer are some of the occupational illnesses that can be diagnosed. Those who have been diagnosed with these ailments are eligible to receive financial compensation. To find out more about how to submit claims for compensation, contact us today. We offer a free initial consultation.

Diesel Exhaust

The conversion of railroad locomotives from steam power to diesel in the 1950's introduced an entirely new set of harmful fumes, gases and particulates for railroad workers to be exposed to. The proper functioning of railroad locomotives is to let out all diesel fumes out of the engine cabin. However, it has been proven that the fumes escaped into many railroad workers' cabs, dependent on the design of the locomotive and the way in which the engines were used. Many older locomotives for switching and yard were operated using the "long-hood forward" position, which caused workers to be placed directly in the cab of the engine.

The exhaust of diesel contains hundreds of chemicals which include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. All of these substances are known to cause lung cancer. These chemicals are carried in the microscopic particles of diesel fumes which can be inhaled deeply into the lungs. There they trigger a chemical reaction that harms lung tissue.

Studies have demonstrated that prolonged exposure to diesel fumes can cause lung cancer as well as a respiratory condition known as "diesel asthma". Some studies suggest that exposure to diesel fumes could increase the rate of death from COPD. This is in line with what railroad workers themselves have asserted in legal cases brought under the Federal Employers Liability Act.

Chemical Exposure

The exposure to chemicals that railroad workers can cause lung issues like pulmonary fibroids. This condition causes scarring of the lungs and makes breathing difficult. It is characterized by shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing, fatigue and clubbing of the fingers and toes. COPD symptoms may be caused by diesel fumes that come from idling trains and cigarettes.

Derailments may also release harmful chemicals. Railcars could be carrying crude oil, chlorine, or other hazardous chemicals that could spill out or leak during a train crash. In these instances railroad workers and first responders are exposed toxic chemicals.

Benzene, a chemical liquid that is colorless or yellowish it quickly vaporizes. It can be found in gasoline, crude oil and smoke from cigarettes. Benzene is known to cause cancer and can damage the reproductive organs.

If you are a railroad worker and have been diagnosed with pulmonary thermoporosis A Bnsf Railway Emphysema COPD lawyer from Doran & Murphy can help to get the compensation you deserve. You could be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and bnsf railway emphysema other damages. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes is the primary cause of COPD. Smoke from cigarettes is a source of carbon monoxide, which clogs the lungs with mucus, and blocks airways. This stops the lungs from breathing properly, which can result in a variety lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis, pneumonia asthma, and emphysema.

Railroad workers who are exposed to diesel exhaust are at greater risk of developing COPD. A retrospective cohort study revealed that COPD mortality increased with the length of time working in positions that included diesel exposure increased. This increase was still present after smoking was controlled.

The pulmonary fibrosis that is caused by diesel exhaust is extremely dangerous. It can cause scarring in the lungs, impede oxygen flow and result in fatigue, shortness breath and a tendency to swell fingers and toes. It is crucial to seek medical help immediately in the event that you or someone you know is diagnosed with this disease. Contact a railroad-related pulmonary fibrosis lawyer at Doran & Murphy today for assistance. Our lawyers will review your case and assist you get the compensation you deserve. Our Portland, Oregon office serves clients across the country.