Guide to Asbestos Trust Fund Claims - (800) 291-0963
Free Mesothelioma Consultation 800.291.0963
Free Mesothelioma Consultation 800.291.0963
Asbestos Exposure in High Risk Jobs
Exploring - Asbestos Exposure in Equipment
Thousands of workers in specific trades and industries were routinely exposed to asbestos—often without being warned of the health dangers. These high-risk jobs involved handling, repairing, or working near materials that released microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. Years later, many of these workers are now being diagnosed with serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestos lung cancer, and asbestosis. This guide explains which jobs were most affected, how exposure happened, and what legal and financial support is available.
What Made These Jobs High Risk?
Jobs that involved frequent contact with heat, friction, dust, or building materials often required asbestos-containing products. When cut, sanded, or disturbed, these materials released airborne fibers that could be inhaled or swallowed. The dangers weren’t widely known—or disclosed—until decades later.
Asbestos-related diseases often take 20 to 50 years to appear, which is why so many former workers are just now being diagnosed.
🧰 Common High-Risk Occupations for Asbestos Exposure
These jobs exposed workers to the highest levels of asbestos:
- Shipyard Workers: Constant exposure to insulation, boiler rooms, and asbestos-coated pipes.
- Construction Workers: Handling asbestos cement, drywall, flooring, roofing, and insulation.
- Boilermakers: Worked directly with asbestos-lined boilers and pipe insulation.
- Electricians: Exposed through electrical panel insulation, wiring, and fireproofing.
- Plumbers & Pipefitters: Contact with asbestos pipe wrap, gaskets, and cement.
- Auto Mechanics: Brake pads, clutches, and gaskets often contained asbestos.
- Insulators: Installed asbestos-containing insulation on pipes and mechanical systems.
- Factory Workers: Asbestos was in machinery, ovens, gaskets, and equipment insulation.
- Power Plant Workers: Boilers, turbines, and pumps used asbestos for fire protection.
- Military Personnel: Barracks, vehicles, ships, and aircraft all used asbestos materials.
- Firefighters: Disturbed asbestos during fires in older buildings.
- HVAC Technicians: Worked with asbestos in ductwork and heating systems.
⚙️ How Do You Prove Asbestos Exposure in a High-Risk Job?
Even if you worked decades ago, it’s still possible to connect your job duties to known asbestos exposure.
✅ Common Ways to Prove Exposure:
- Job history or union records for specific trades or employers
- Co-worker statements or “buddy letters” confirming asbestos use
- Exposure to specific asbestos-containing products on the job
- Medical diagnosis of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related disease
- Manufacturer records linking products to your job site
- Legal support to match your history with asbestos trust funds
🧾 Who Is Eligible for Compensation From High-Risk Job Exposure?
If you developed an asbestos-related disease from one of these jobs, you may be entitled to compensation—even if the company is no longer in business.
✅ You may be eligible if:
- You worked in a trade or job before 1990 where asbestos exposure was likely
- You’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis
- You were exposed through tools, building materials, or job site conditions
- A loved one died from an asbestos-related illness tied to their job
- You performed maintenance or demolition involving older structures or machines
Many workers qualify for multiple asbestos trust fund claims or lawsuit settlements.
👨👩👧 Benefits Available for Workers and Their Families
Even years after exposure, you and your family may be eligible for compensation, VA benefits, or legal help.
✅ Workers and Families May Qualify For:
- Asbestos trust fund payouts based on job history and product exposure
- Wrongful death or personal injury lawsuits
- Free legal support to gather documents and file claims
- Monthly support payments for surviving family members
- Medical and funeral expense reimbursement
- Secondhand exposure claims for family members affected by dusty work clothes
📞 If you or a loved one worked in a high-risk asbestos job and were later diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos illness, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Get a free legal case review today—no fees unless you win.
Why Choose Us?
25 Years Working With People Diagnosed With Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
50 High-Risk Jobs With Asbestos Exposure
Exploring - Asbestos Exposure in High-Risk Jobs
🧰 50 High-Risk Jobs for Asbestos Exposure
⚓ Shipyard Workers
Shipyard workers handled insulation packed with asbestos daily. Exposure occurred while building, repairing, or dismantling ships, where asbestos was used in pipes, bulkheads, boilers, and fireproofing. Dust often lingered in enclosed ship spaces.
🧱 Construction Workers
Construction crews worked in buildings filled with asbestos materials. These workers cut, drilled, or removed asbestos-containing drywall, insulation, flooring, and roofing—especially in structures built before 1980. Demolition released airborne fibers.
🔥 Boilermakers
Boilermakers used asbestos-wrapped boilers and gaskets. They faced direct exposure when repairing or replacing old boilers, where insulation often crumbled into hazardous dust.
💡 Electricians
Electricians rewired asbestos-lined walls and fixtures. Older buildings used asbestos around wires and panels. Cutting into these materials exposed them to hidden fibers.
🔧 Plumbers
Plumbers handled asbestos-covered pipes in tight spaces. They cut or removed pipe insulation made with asbestos, releasing dangerous dust during basic repair jobs.
🧤 Mechanical Insulators
Insulators directly installed asbestos-containing insulation. They wrapped boilers, ducts, and pipes with asbestos blankets and cloth—putting them at one of the highest risks for exposure.
⛏️ Miners
Miners drilled through asbestos-rich rock. In natural deposits, fibers were easily disturbed and inhaled, especially without proper protective gear.
🚒 Firefighters
Firefighters entered buildings with asbestos insulation and debris. During fires, ceilings, walls, and roofs collapsed—releasing clouds of asbestos dust.
🏚️ Demolition Workers
Demolition workers tore down buildings with asbestos. Old insulation, tiles, and cement products were pulverized, creating airborne asbestos hazards during every project.
🚗 Car Mechanics
Mechanics replaced asbestos-lined brake pads and clutches. Friction and grinding released dust into shops. Many handled parts without knowing they were dangerous.
❄️ HVAC Technicians
HVAC workers cut through asbestos-insulated ducts. Maintenance in old systems exposed them to pipe wraps and tape made with asbestos.
🎨 Painters
Painters scraped asbestos-laced walls and ceilings. Removing old paint or sanding texture coatings could release fibers hidden in pre-1980 homes and buildings.
🔧 Welders
Welders worked near heat shields with asbestos. Their tasks disturbed nearby materials used for fire resistance and insulation, creating dust clouds.
🏠 Roofers
Roofers handled asbestos tiles and felt paper. Replacing or removing old roofing disturbed bonded asbestos layers, releasing harmful fibers.
🔥 Boiler Technicians
Boiler techs repaired asbestos-insulated systems. Gaskets and pipe joints released fibers when cracked or removed during maintenance.
🏭 Foundry Workers
Foundry workers used asbestos in heat-intensive tasks. Molds, ovens, and gear often contained asbestos to handle high temperatures. Repeated handling released fibers.
🚘 Auto Body Technicians
Auto body techs handled asbestos in brakes and gaskets. Disassembly of older vehicle parts exposed them to layers of built-up asbestos dust.
🚆 Railroad Workers
Railroad employees handled asbestos brake and engine parts. Asbestos was used in insulation and friction products on trains, exposing repair crews daily.
🧱 Masons
Masons worked with asbestos-laced cement and mortar. Chiseling and grinding bricks or plaster released fibers embedded in construction compounds.
🧩 Tile Installers
Tile installers removed asbestos floor and ceiling tiles. Older tiles were often made with asbestos, and cutting them sent dust into the air.
🏗️ Cement Workers
Cement workers mixed asbestos-containing blends. They applied coatings and mortars used for fireproofing. Dust rose during mixing and sanding.
🏭 Steel Workers
Steel workers operated near asbestos-insulated equipment. Asbestos protected furnaces, smelters, and pipes. Heat exposure caused insulation to crack and release dust.
🔍 Glass Workers
Glassmakers handled asbestos-lined gloves and insulation. Materials used in high-heat settings exposed them during grinding, shaping, and handling hot parts.
⚙️ Ship Engineers
Ship engineers maintained asbestos-filled engine rooms. Pipes, boilers, and exhaust systems were wrapped in asbestos insulation that broke down over time.
🧰 Fabricators
Fabricators shaped materials containing asbestos. Found in seals, padding, and gaskets, asbestos dust was released during processing or assembly.
☢️ Hazardous Waste Workers
Hazmat workers cleaned asbestos-contaminated sites. Cleanup of building debris, old pipes, or insulation released fibers unless handled with strict safety protocols.
🪚 Drywall Installers
Drywallers sanded asbestos joint compound. Before the 1980s, wall materials commonly contained asbestos. Sanding and drilling created fine dust.
🛠️ Machine Operators
Operators ran machines with asbestos seals and parts. Opening or maintaining machines exposed them to degraded insulation and gaskets.
🔧 Pipelayers
Pipelayers installed asbestos-coated pipe systems. In older buildings and infrastructure, cement and wraps released dust during cuts or fitting.
🚇 Tunnel Workers
Tunnel workers bored through asbestos-lined rock and structures. Dust from explosives and drills carried fine particles into the air.
🪚 Carpenters
Carpenters built and repaired asbestos-filled homes. Roof shingles, tiles, and insulation all carried fiber risks during remodeling.
🚜 Farm Workers
Farmers used asbestos-insulated machinery and barns. Exposure happened during maintenance of silos, tractors, or livestock shelters with asbestos roofing.
🚢 Shipbuilders
Shipbuilders handled massive amounts of asbestos. Used in fireproofing, insulation, and construction—exposure was routine during every phase of ship assembly.
🎖️ Veterans (Military Personnel)
Military members lived in asbestos-filled bases and ships. From boiler rooms to barracks, they inhaled fibers without knowing the risks.
🌿 Landscape Workers
Landscapers disturbed asbestos near old homes. Soil, siding, or broken pipe insulation released fibers during digging or cleanup.
☎️ Telephone Linemen
Lineman worked with asbestos-insulated cables. Poles and underground systems used asbestos for fire protection, exposing workers during splicing or repair.
🎨 Plasterers
Plasterers used asbestos-rich wall compounds. Sanding, mixing, and applying plaster sent particles into confined airspace.
🏗️ Roofing Contractors
Roofing contractors removed asbestos shingles and felt. Older homes and commercial buildings used bonded asbestos in roof coverings.
🧵 Textile Workers
Textile workers wove asbestos threads into fabric. Industrial cloth, gloves, and fire blankets were made from asbestos and shed fibers during manufacturing.
🛢️ Oil Refinery Workers
Refinery crews worked on asbestos-lined systems. Boilers, pumps, and towers all had insulation that degraded and exposed workers during maintenance.
🔨 Foundry Laborers
Laborers cleaned and maintained asbestos-insulated equipment. Foundry heat required heavy asbestos use in molds and furnaces.
🚰 Water Treatment Workers
Water plant workers replaced asbestos-coated pipes. Asbestos cement pipes and insulation released fibers during excavations or retrofits.
🧪 Refinery Workers
Refinery staff operated near asbestos-laden equipment. High-heat systems used asbestos in seals, gaskets, and pipe wraps.
🧱 Siding Contractors
Siding contractors removed asbestos shingles and panels. Work on older homes meant frequent exposure to brittle, crumbling materials.
🪑 Furniture Upholsterers
Upholsterers encountered asbestos in older padding. Stripping antique chairs or sofas released fibers embedded in stuffing or linings.
🗑️ Sanitation Workers
Trash collectors handled asbestos demolition waste. Debris from old buildings often included hidden asbestos, stirred up during collection or compaction.
Find Out if You Qualify Today!
Talk to a Real Live Person!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Mesothelioma Claims Process: From Filing to Settlement
Exploring Mesothelioma Claims Process: From Filing to Settlement
The mesothelioma claims process can seem overwhelming, but understanding each step can make it easier to navigate. Here's an easy-to-follow guide to help you understand the process, from filing your claim to receiving compensation.
Step 1: Consult with an Experienced Mesothelioma Lawyer
The first step in the mesothelioma claims process is to consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. This lawyer specializes in asbestos-related cases and can guide you through the legal process. They will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you determine whether you are eligible for compensation. Choosing a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma cases increases your chances of success.
Step 2: Gather Medical and Work History
Once you've chosen your lawyer, the next step is to gather your medical and work history. You’ll need to provide your medical records that confirm your mesothelioma diagnosis and documents showing where and when you were exposed to asbestos. Your lawyer will help you collect employment records and any other relevant documents that establish the connection between your exposure and your illness. This step is essential to building a strong case.
Step 3: Investigate the Asbestos Exposure
In this step, your lawyer will work to identify the specific companies and products responsible for your asbestos exposure. This is done by investigating your work history, where you lived, and which asbestos-containing materials you were in contact with. Your lawyer will research which manufacturers or employers were involved and whether they can be held legally accountable. This investigation is crucial for determining who will be the target of your claim.
Step 4: Filing the Mesothelioma Claim
After gathering all necessary information, your lawyer will file the mesothelioma claim on your behalf. This may involve filing a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure, or it could involve filing a claim with an asbestos trust fund, which is a compensation fund set up by companies that have gone bankrupt due to asbestos liabilities. Your lawyer will ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted to support your claim and increase the chances of success.
Step 5: Discovery and Negotiation
Once the claim is filed, the discovery process begins. During this phase, both parties (you and the defendants) will exchange information and evidence related to the case. This process may involve depositions, document requests, and expert witness testimony. After discovery, your lawyer will enter into settlement negotiations with the defendant(s). Many mesothelioma cases are settled out of court to avoid lengthy trials. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible settlement.
Step 6: Settlement or Trial
Most mesothelioma claims are settled out of court, which means you will receive compensation without a trial. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, the case will proceed to trial. During a trial, both sides present evidence and arguments to a judge or jury, who will then make a decision. While a trial can take longer, a favorable verdict can result in a larger settlement. However, many mesothelioma cases are settled before reaching trial, providing quicker compensation.
Step 7: Receiving Compensation
After settlement or trial, you will receive compensation for your mesothelioma diagnosis. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from your illness. If your claim is successful, you will receive a financial payout. This compensation is essential for managing the costs of treatment, and it provides some financial relief for you and your family. Your lawyer will help you understand how much you are entitled to and ensure that the funds are distributed appropriately.
Step 8: Post-Settlement Support
After you receive compensation, your lawyer will continue to support you by ensuring that all aspects of your claim are completed, and they will address any additional legal concerns that may arise. If you are receiving compensation from an asbestos trust fund, your lawyer will help you navigate the disbursement process. Post-settlement support ensures that all final steps are handled efficiently and that you can focus on your health and well-being.
Final Thoughts
The mesothelioma claims process can be lengthy, but with the help of a skilled attorney, you can secure the compensation you deserve. Whether your claim involves filing a lawsuit or a trust fund claim, following each step carefully will ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you get the support you need during this challenging time.
Find Out if You Qualify Today!
Talk to a Real Live Person!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
FAQs About Mesothelioma Lawsuits
What is asbestos, and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, industrial, and military applications due to its heat resistance, insulation, and fireproofing properties. However, asbestos becomes hazardous when its microscopic fibers are inhaled into the lungs. Over time, these fibers can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, and lung cancer. These diseases often take decades to develop, which can make early detection challenging.
What are the risks of asbestos exposure for Coast Guard Veterans?
Asbestos exposure is common in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. People who worked with or around asbestos in construction sites, maintenance facilities, or shipyards are at higher risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in insulation, pipes, boilers, gaskets, and various equipment. Prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can result in mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other severe respiratory conditions. Symptoms often don’t appear until many years after exposure, which can lead to delayed diagnoses.
What is mesothelioma, and how does it develop from asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. The fibers become trapped in the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), or heart (pericardium), causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this leads to the formation of cancerous tumors. Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure, meaning many people are diagnosed decades after their initial contact with asbestos.
How can I tell if I’m experiencing symptoms of asbestos exposure?
If you've been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to recognize early signs of related diseases. Common symptoms of asbestos-related diseases include:
- Persistent or chronic coughing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing or other breathing difficulties
- Coughing up blood in some cases
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early detection can significantly improve treatment options and outcomes.
What should I do if I’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure, it’s crucial to:
- Seek legal advice: Consult with an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation to explore your legal options for compensation.
- Document your service records: Keep a record of your time in service, detailing areas where you may have been exposed to asbestos.
- Look into treatment options: Discuss with your doctor about treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, and consider seeking a second opinion if necessary.
- Join a support group: Support groups for veterans and individuals affected by asbestos-related diseases can provide emotional and practical help.
Can individuals exposed to asbestos get compensation?
Yes, people diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure may be eligible for compensation. This compensation can come from asbestos trust funds, workers’ compensation, or personal injury lawsuits. Those affected may receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Are there asbestos trust funds available for people diagnosed with mesothelioma?
Yes, many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established asbestos trust funds. These funds are available for victims to file claims and receive compensation. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure?
Mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to develop after initial asbestos exposure. Due to this long latency period, people may not be diagnosed until many years after their exposure. It is essential to remain vigilant about your health and seek medical attention if any symptoms arise, even if the exposure occurred decades ago.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any asbestos-related disease, do not wait. Consult with a mesothelioma lawyer today to explore your legal options and understand your rights to compensation. Early diagnosis and legal guidance are essential for securing the treatment and financial support you deserve.
High-Risk Jobs With Asbestos Exposure
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a rare cancer tied to asbestos exposure, typically affects individuals aged 55-75, often diagnosed decades after their initial contact with this dangerous substance.
Mesothelioma Treatments
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
The three primary treatments for Mesothelioma include surgery to remove tumors, radiation therapy to target cancer cells, and chemotherapy to help shrink and control the disease.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Women and Mesothelioma
Ninety percent of Mesothelioma patients initially report experiencing shortness of breath as their primary symptom, often signaling the presence of this aggressive asbestos-related cancer.
Women and Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Women and Mesothelioma
Women diagnosed with mesothelioma, often due to work-related asbestos exposure, represent a growing percentage of cases, with hundreds diagnosed annually in the U.S.
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
The life expectancy for mesothelioma patients varies but typically ranges from 12 to 21 months after diagnosis, depending on factors like age, health, and stage of cancer at detection.
Asbestos Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer, as inhaled fibers can cause long-term damage to lung tissues, leading to cancer years after exposure.
Mesothelioma Legal Information
Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Asbestos Trust Fund List
Mesothelioma lawsuits allow victims of asbestos exposure to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain by holding negligent companies accountable.
Asbestos Trust Fund List
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Asbestos Trust Fund List
There are more than 6 Asbestos Trust Funds with $32 Billion Available For qualified claimants.
Find out if you qualify in minutes from an experienced mesothelioma attorney,
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
About 700,000 victims have filed claims for health damages from their asbestos exposure.
Find Out if you Qualify Today!
What Are Eligible Claims?
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Those diagnosed with mesothelioma from asbestos, including workers, military veterans, and secondarily exposed family members, might qualify to file for compensation claims.
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Each State Has a Strict Statute of Limitation For Filing a Claim! Here is a state-by state list of Filing Deadlines
Free Consultation
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
We provide a free case consultation with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to help you understand your legal options and potentially pursue compensation for asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace
Asbestos in Occupations
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
It is estimated that over 30 million workers in the U.S. have been exposed to asbestos since the 1940s. More than 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the U.S.
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
We provide specialized support for workers in high-risk asbestos exposure jobs, ensuring they receive expert legal assistance to pursue rightful compensation.
Asbestos Products
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
Military Asbestos Exposure
Learn about asbestos-containing products like insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials, and pipe coverings, and how exposure to these items can lead to serious health problems.
Military Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Military Asbestos Exposure
An estimated 25 million U.S. military veterans, especially Navy personnel, were exposed to asbestos in ships and shipyards from the late 1930s to the early 1990s.
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure was common in Navy ships and shipyards, where insulation, gaskets, and pipe coverings contained asbestos, putting countless sailors and shipyard workers at serious health risk.
Asbestos in Jobsites
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos was used on many jobsites, especially in construction and industrial work, exposing workers to hazardous fibers in insulation, cement, roofing, and pipe-covering materials.