공지사항

Working on the Railroad Can Increase Your Risk for COPD

If you are employed on the railroad, there is a good chance that you have been exposed to diesel exhaust fumes over the course of your career. Long-term railroad work has been associated with a higher risk of COPD, based on studies. Exposure to these fumes can cause toxic encephalopathy that could cause permanent brain damage. This can also increase the risk of lung cancer and other ailments.

Asbestos

While working on or near trains, bnsf railway all bnsf railway black lung disease chronic lymphocytic leukemia [your domain name] workers could be exposed to asbestos as well as other dangerous substances. Asbestos, a grouping of minerals that are naturally occurring, was once widely used due to of its strength in addition to its fire retardant and corrosion-resistant properties, bnsf Railway chronic lymphocytic leukemia as being used for insulation. When asbestos is disturbed it breaks down into extremely thin fibers that can be inhaled into the lung. This can result in serious respiratory illnesses like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and the formation of pleural plaques.

Workers who have been exposed to asbestos may also suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases which blocks airflow from the lung and makes breathing difficult. Pleural effusions may also occur as a result of the accumulation of fluid inside the lung's lining (pleura).

Railroad workers may also be exposed to toxic fumes, chemicals and toxins in addition to asbestos. These include harsh cleaning solvents for railroad equipment, creosote, and weed killers that are applied to railroad ties and other sources of irritation.

The lawyers of Doran and Murphy PLLC have represented many railroad workers who were suffering from occupational diseases. COPD, asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer are just a few of the occupational diseases that can be diagnosed. Those who have been affected by these conditions could be eligible for financial compensation. To find out more about how to submit claims for compensation, contact us today. We offer a no-cost initial consultation.

Diesel Exhaust

The conversion of railroad locomotives from steam to diesel power in the 1950's brought with it a whole new cocktail of toxic fumes, gases and particulates for railroad workers to be exposed to. Railroad locomotives that are properly functioning are designed to expel the exhaust fumes of diesel outside an engine cab, however, over time, it has been observed that, based upon the method of locomotive use and the design of the cab, the fumes did get into many railroad workers' cabs. Many older locomotives for switching and yard were operated in the "long-hood forward" position which caused workers to be positioned directly in the cab of the engine.

The diesel exhaust contains hundreds of chemicals, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. All of these substances are known to cause lung cancer. These substances are absorbed by tiny particles of diesel fumes. These can be breathed in deeply into the lungs and cause lung tissue damage.

Medical studies have demonstrated that long term exposure to diesel fumes can cause a respiratory illness known as "diesel asthma" and lung bnsf railway blood cancer. Some research also shows that exposure to diesel fumes for long periods of time can increase COPD death rates. This is in line with the claims railroad workers themselves have claimed in legal cases brought under the Federal Employers Liability Act.

Chemical Exposure

The exposure to chemicals that railroad workers can cause lung problems like pulmonary fibroids. This condition causes scarring of the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe. Signs of COPD include shortness of breath wheezing and coughing, fatigue, and the clubbing of fingers and toes. COPD symptoms may be caused by diesel fumes emitted from idle trains as well as cigarette smoke.

Derailments can also release chemical. The railcars may be carrying chlorine, crude oil or other dangerous chemicals that could spill out or leak in the event of a train accident. In these situations railroad workers as well as first responders are exposed to the dangerous chemicals.

Benzene, a liquid chemical that is yellowish or colorless it quickly vaporizes. It is a component of gasoline and crude oil and can be seen in cigarette smoke or in the vapors released from different paints. Benzene is known to cause cancer and can cause damage to reproductive organs.

If you've been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis while working as an employee of a railroad or a passenger, a lawyer from Doran & Murphy will help you receive the compensation you deserve. You could be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, Bnsf railway cll lost wages and other damages. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation.

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes is the primary cause of COPD. The smoke from cigarettes contains carbon monoxide that clogs the lungs with mucus and blocks airways. The lungs then stop breathing properly. This can lead a variety of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis.

Rail workers who are exposed to diesel exhaust have a greater chance of developing COPD. A retrospective cohort study found that COPD mortality increased with the increase in years worked in diesel-exposed jobs and the increase remained after adjusting for smoking.

The pulmonary fibrosis triggered by diesel exhaust can be extremely grave. It can cause scarring in the lungs, reduce oxygen flow and lead to fatigue, shortness of breath and a tendency to swell fingers and toes. If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with this disease it is crucial to seek medical attention right away. Contact a railroad-related pulmonary fibrosis lawyer at Doran & Murphy today for assistance. Our lawyers will analyze your case and help you get the compensation you deserve. Our Portland, Oregon office serves clients across the nation.