Diesel Fume / Diesel Exhaust Exposure
Dangers of Diesel Fume and Diesel Exhaust Exposure
Diesel fume or diesel exhaust exposure has lasting effects that can be devastating for workers and their loved ones. These toxins and carcinogens can appear in many different ways in a work environment.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has listed diesel fumes and diesel exhaust as a “likely” cancer-causing agent. Not only can the particulates found in diesel exhaust cause cancer, they can also cause asthma, COPD, emphysema, heart attack, stroke, and premature death among other respiratory and health disorders.
Studies show that occupational exposure to diesel fume is the leading cause of toxic exposure. The Clean Air Task Force relates that other possible exposure sites include areas near:
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People who live in these areas are at a higher risk of being negatively effected by diesel fumes. Diesel exhaust produces a cancer risk 7.5 times higher than the combined total cancer risk for all other inhaled toxins (Clean Air Task Force).
While the people who live in urban areas are at a higher risk of exposure than those who live in more rural surroundings, individuals who work with diesel equipment are at the highest risk. Construction crews, truck drivers, and especially railroad workers are all exposed to diesel fumes for at least eight hours a day and could be eligible to railroad disability benefits.
While the EPA is now calling for lower emissions and more careful usage of diesel fumes, thousands of people are still left suffering from illnesses caused by their employment. If you or a loved one has been exposed to diesel fumes and had your health suffer, please contact Doran & Murphy immediately to see how the law can work for you.
