Auto Mechanics | Mesothelioma Diagnosis

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• History of asbestos exposure in auto mechanics
• Research linking auto mechanics to asbestos exposure
  

Auto Mechanics and Mesothelioma Diagnosis Due to Asbestos Exposure 

Along with construction, carpentry and shipbuilding, there is another blue-collar occupation with asbestos dangers.  Automobile mechanics are at risk for developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.  Both automobile manufacturers and auto mechanics have come in contact with asbestos on a regular basis as they dealt with the brake linings and clutch pads that are common in most cars in America and elsewhere.  This exposure, while not as intense as that experienced by shipbuilders and boilermakers, has still proven to be dangerous and deadly in many cases.

A mesothelioma diagnosis for auto mechanics is not rare. The EPA issued official asbestos warnings in the mid-seventies, and OSHA continues to offer guidelines on working safely with the toxic material. Despite these guidelines, surprisingly dangerous levels of asbestos dust are still found in automotive workshops and garages across the country, where they pose health risks to both mechanics and nearby customers in the shops. A recent study conducted by government-certified laboratories on behalf of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer found that more than two-thirds of automotive garages inspected had “dangerous levels of asbestos dust present,” somewhere between 2.26 percent and 63.8 percent. Given the long dormancy period between exposure to asbestos and the development of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, this does not bode well for the present members of the automotive mechanic profession.

Auto mechanics turn out to be one of the occupations with a higher degree of risk for developing a mesothelioma diagnosis from their physicians.  These workers are exposed to the short chrysotile asbestos fibers during the installation, repair and replacement of brake systems, as asbestos has been  used consistently (particularly in the past) in the brake linings and pads of brake systems due to the excellent heat and fire-resistant properties of the material. Many brakes are still made with asbestos--just in smaller amounts than in the past--and as the pads and linings break down with friction against the drums, asbestos dust is formed and can be inhaled by mechanics when they service the brake systems, particularly if they are unaware of the dangers inherent in asbestos.

The Simmons firm passionately pursues justice for those individuals and their families who have been affected by asbestos exposure leading to mesothelioma. For the past ten years, we have worked to represent mesothelioma victims and their families, even as we have donated funds to support research into finding a cure for this tragic disease. We are personally committed to the fight against mesothelioma, and treat our clients with the dignity that comes through understanding mesothelioma and its many effects on human life. If you believe you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, or if you or your loved one is experiencing the symptoms of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, please contact your physician. And consider contacting the Simmons firm as well.