What Makes Rail Yards High-Risk?
- Constant inhalation of diesel exhaust and other toxic gasses
- Welding work on machinery or track components, aluminum or stainless steel
- Maintaining or repairing boilers and diesel engines
- Working in poorly ventilated workspaces
- Painting and removing paint from rail cars
- Air arcing/plasma cutting
- Burning toxic materials, including fuels and rail ties
- Handling and cutting creosote covered ties
- Dumping ballast rock
- Working in tunnels filled with diesel exhaust
- Demolishing old buildings and roundhouses that may contain asbestos
- Using degreasers, adhesives, solvents and other industrial chemicals
- Plumbing and pipefitting
- Electrical work
- Handling pesticides
What Cancers Are Linked to Diesel Exposure?
Several serious medical conditions and cancers have been linked to work at rail yards, including the following:
- Lung Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Nasopharyngeal Cancer
- Stomach Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
- Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Multiple Myeloma
- Aplastic Anemia
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- Emphysema
- RADS (Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome)
- Interstitial Lung Disease
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
With the advent of federal safety agencies like NIOSH and OSHA, work safety standards have improved, but there is still a high risk of toxic exposure at rail yards due to the amount of toxic substances on site. Acute and chronic toxic exposures to carcinogenic materials are still probable for many workers.
After a confirmed lung disease or cancer diagnosis, Massachusetts railroad workers may be able to file Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) injury claims. Personal injury lawsuits may also be considered if the compensation provided is not enough for you and your family. Contact our attorneys to discuss your legal options, and to begin the claim process.
Which Massachusetts Railroad Workers Are at Cancer Risk?
Thousands of staff at railroads have fallen ill over the last few decades, many of whom have developed cancers directly related to the strong chemicals they handles on a daily basis. Any worker who handled asbestos insulation, creosote, benzene products, silica, herbicides and welding equipment may be at risk. The highest risk jobs and careers at rail yards may include the following:
- Conductors and engineers
- Trackmen, carmen, brakemen
- Signal operators
- Diesel mechanics
- Machinists
- Pipefitters and plumbers
- Electricians
- Welders
- Painters
- Track maintenance crews
Why Hire The Lyon Firm?
The toxic exposure attorneys at The Lyon Firm work diligently to move your case forward for a quick and valuable settlement. We believe very strongly that any railroader that has developed cancer as a result of employer negligence has a right to full compensation. We have the experience, dedication and resources to take your case and seek a financially stable future for you and your family.
Should I File a Lawsuit?
Railroad cancer lawsuits are often necessary to not only get a victim the medical and financial help they need, but to hold a negligent employer responsible, thereby encouraging a change in work safety practices that will protect all future railroaders.
It may not be how you imagined your railroad career to end, by taking legal action, but an illness related to a workplace toxic exposure may require more than just a FELA injury claim. We can help assess your case and you can decide whether you want to move forward in the legal process. We assume all financial risks and assume all tasks related to your case while you focus on your health and spend time with your loved ones.