Unions and Asbestos Exposure

Unions and Asbestos

Throughout history of labor and employees, unions have played a unique role. They have had phases where they caused riots and angered masses to drive their causes and what they stand for.

In recent years, the problem of asbestos exposure and the related asbestos diseases in the workplace, unions have been there. They have  stuck close to the side of sick employees rallying for their rights. They have rallied for the rights of workers who unknowingly were exposed to asbestos on the job.

As far back as the 1930s employers were aware of the health hazards and risks associated with asbestos. Some employers went so far as to cover up evidence. The evidence was of their knowledge of the risks posed by working with the supposed ‘miracle mineral’ – asbestos.

Before long , labor and trade unions stepped in and made asbestos their prime concern. A number of them played a large role in exposing the cover ups that were widespread by many companies in the United States.

Unions Reaction to Asbestos

Early labor unions made it their duty to inform their members of the hazards they faced if their jobs involved working with asbestos. Secret memos were exposed from company officials and hired doctors who brought forward the fact that asbestos exposure was the main cause of respiratory diseases including mesothelioma and asbestosis.

As a result unions even encouraged workers to refuse to work in hazardous conditions. The labor and trade unions rallied for the changes in the asbestos industry when no one else would. Today, they are still playing an important role in fighting unfair worker legislature in respect of asbestos related disease compensation. One such aspect is the trust funds opened by large companies whose employees were exposed to asbestos and suffered from asbestos cancers.

Consequently, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation.