Workers in paper mills face many on-the-job risks that are inherent in any type of factory work. While it is easy to see how working with heavy machinery with many moving parts can cause an injury, there is a serious danger that may go unseen in paper mills: asbestos exposure. Asbestos exposure can lead to fatal diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Statistics on mesothelioma in paper mills
Paper mill workers can easily contract mesothelioma or lung cancer. Some paper mill workers are more at risk than others. One study reports that most cases of pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer in paper mills occurred in maintenance workers. Asbestos fibers can be found in paper mill equipment, including drying machines and insulating panels. Asbestos exposure amongst those who work in paper mills presents an increased risk of developing cancer.
Where can asbestos be found in paper mills?
Asbestos can be found in multiple places of a paper mill. Paper mill equipment such as gaskets, dryer felt and talc backing contains asbestos. Maintenance workers would come into contact with this equipment in the course of their job duties repairing machines. Workers who had to replace dryer felt were also exposed to asbestos. Industrial adhesives, insulation, tiles and paint used to construct the paper mill all can contain asbestos.
Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma. Living with mesothelioma can cause significant financial burdens including medical expenses and lost wages from being unable to work. If you have mesothelioma you may want to explore your options for obtaining the compensation you deserve.