Silicosis and Silica Exposure Lawyer

Dangerous Work Conditions Attorney in Minnesota & Wisconsin

Silicosis (also known as Potter's rot) is a type of lung disease caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. While silicosis is rare, the root cause--silica sand--is the second-most common compound on the surface of the earth. Silica sand is found in several rocks and ores and presents no danger in its natural, untouched state. Silica becomes dangerous through the cutting, breaking, crushing, drilling, grinding or abrasive blasting that leads unprotected workers to inhale the microscopic sand particles.

Historically, sandblasting was performed as an open-air job, which exposed workers to risk of injury from the flying material and lung injury from inhaling the dust. The silica dust produced in the sandblasting process causes silicosis after sustained inhalation of the dust. Today, any company that employs workers in a potentially dangerous or hazardous environment is responsible for providing the appropriate measures to ensure the workers' safety. Typical safety equipment for operators who are blasting silica sand include the following:

1) Positive-pressure blast hood or helmet: This hood or helmet includes a view window with lens protection, an air feed hose, and a head suspension system to allow the device to move with the operator's head.

2) Grade D air supply: The air feed hose is typically attached to a grade D pressurized air supply. Grade D air is mandated by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) to protect workers from hazardous gases. The air feed hose includes a pressure regulator, air filtration and a carbon monoxide alarm.

3) Ear protection: Ear muffs or ear plugs.

4) Body protection: Body protection varies by application but usually consists of gloves and overalls or a leather coat and chaps. Professionals wear a canvas blast suit.
What should I do if I have been diagnosed with silicosis?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with silicosis, your mounting hospital bills, missed work time, and uncertainty about the future can make an already painful situation even more difficult. It is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to give you a clear and immediate understanding of your options for recovering damages against the responsible party or parties. Richard Schroeder provides a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to understand your unique situation and present options for getting you the settlement you deserve. He charges no up-front fees, and attorney fees are paid as a percentage of the total recovery once you have been compensated. Don't wait another day to reclaim your life. Call 877-426-8740 or email Richard today.

 

 

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