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Working on the Railroad Can Increase Your Risk for COPD

You're likely to have been exposed to diesel fumes throughout your entire career if you are employed in the railroad industry. The long-term work experience in the railroad industry has been linked to a higher prevalence of COPD, as per studies. Exposure to these fumes can cause toxic encephalopathy which is a condition that can cause permanent brain damage. This may also increase the risk of lung cancer, as well as other conditions.

Asbestos

While working on or near trains, railroad workers may be exposed to asbestos as well as other hazardous substances. Asbestos is a collection of minerals that are naturally occurring, was once extensively used because of its durability, fire retardant and corrosion-resistant properties as well being used for insulation. When asbestos is disturbed, it breaks down into tiny fibers that are inhaled. This can cause serious respiratory diseases including pleural plaques, mesothelioma and Lawsuit settlement asbestosis.

Asbestos-related workers can also develop chronic obstructive lung disease, which causes breathing difficulties. Pleural effusions may also occur as a result of the accumulation of fluid inside the lung's lining (pleura).

In addition to asbestos exposure, railroad workers can be exposed to other toxic chemicals and Lawsuit Settlement fumes. This includes harsh cleaning solvents that are 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 suffering from occupational illnesses. COPD, asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer are some of the occupational diseases that can be diagnosed. People who have been diagnosed with these ailments are eligible to receive financial compensation. To learn more about filing claims for compensation, call us today. We provide a no-cost initial consultation.

Diesel Exhaust

In the 1950s, Bnsf Railway Blood Cancer when railroad locomotives were changed from steam to diesel power and released a mix of toxic gases and particles that railroad workers were exposed to. Properly functioning railroad locomotive engines are supposed to exhaust all exhaust fumes from diesel outside an engine cab but, over time, it has been shown that, based upon the method of locomotive use and the design of the cab, the fumes were able to enter railroad worker's cabins. Many older switching and yard locomotives were operated with the "long-hood forward" position which caused workers to be positioned directly in front of the cabs of engines.

The chemicals found in diesel exhaust, which is seen as dark smoke, include a multitude of compounds like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and benzene all of which are known to cause cancer. These substances are absorbed by microscopic particles that are present in diesel fumes. These can be inhaled deeply into the lungs, causing lung tissue damage.

Medical studies have revealed that long term exposure to diesel fumes could result in a respiratory disease called "diesel asthma" and bnsf railway esophageal cancer lung cancer. Some research shows that exposure to diesel fumes can increase the rate of death from COPD. This is in the same way as railroad workers have claimed in legal proceedings filed 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, which makes breathing difficult. Symptoms include shortness of breath wheezing and coughing, bnsf railway stomach cancer fatigue, and Railroad lawsuits a throbbing sensation in the fingers and toes. COPD symptoms may be caused by diesel fumes released from idle trains as well as cigarette smoke.

Derailments also release chemicals. Railcars can contain dangerous substances such as crude oil and chlorine as well as other hazardous substances. These substances can be released or Bnsf Railway Bladder Cancer spill out during a train collision. In these instances railroad workers as well as first responders are exposed to the hazardous chemicals.

Benzene, a liquid chemical that is colorless or yellowish and rapidly vaporizes. It is a part of crude oil and gasoline, and it can also appear in cigarette smoke or vapors from different paints. Benzene can cause cancer and damage to reproductive organs.

If you've been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis as a railroad employee, a lawyer at Doran & Murphy will help you receive the compensation that you deserve. You may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. Contact us today for a an appointment for a no-cost consultation.

Smoking

Smoking is a major cause of COPD. Smoke from cigarettes contains carbon monoxide, which clogs the lungs with mucus and blocks the airways. The lungs then stop breathing properly. This can cause variety of lung conditions, such as chronic bronchitis.

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 jobs that had diesel exhaust exposure grew. This increase was still visible after smoking was stopped.

The pulmonary fibrosis triggered by diesel exhaust can be incredibly dangerous. It can cause scarring of the lungs, reduce oxygen flow, and cause fatigue, shortness of breath, as well as swollen fingers and toes. If you or someone you love has contracted this disease is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Contact a railroad pulmonary fibrosis attorney at Doran & Murphy for assistance today. Our attorneys will evaluate your case and assist you receive the compensation you deserve. Our Portland, Oregon office serves clients throughout the United States.