Jobs With the Highest Asbestos Exposure Risk in North Carolina (Non-Military)
Cutting, disturbing, or otherwise damaging asbestos-containing materials can cause microscopic asbestos fibers to become airborne. Occupational asbestos exposure occurs when workers inhale or ingest asbestos fibers during the course of their jobs.
Once inside the body, asbestos fibers can lodge in the lungs or other tissues and remain there for years. Over time, irritation can lead to asbestosis, which is a form of chronic lung disease, as well as mesothelioma and various lung cancers.
While asbestos is tightly regulated today, that was not always the case, and many North Carolina workers in the types of jobs with the highest asbestos exposure faced repeated exposure before occupational safety regulations were in place. Some continued to face exposure due to lax enforcement of workplace safety protocols. Many workers lacked access to proper protective equipment, meaning many of them wound up with severe and sometimes fatal illnesses.
Top Non-Military Jobs with High Asbestos Exposure Risk in North Carolina
Some of the most dangerous jobs in high asbestos risk occupations in North Carolina included:
- Insulators and pipefitters
- Boiler room and HVAC workers
- Shipyard and maritime workers (non-military)
- Construction workers and demolition workers
- Industrial plant mechanics and maintenance
- Manufacturing plant workers
- Automotive repair technicians
- Elevator and pipe insulation installers
Where High-Risk Jobs Were Common in North Carolina
High-risk asbestos jobs were often concentrated in specific industries and regions across North Carolina, and were especially common in communities with strong industrial and heavy-duty construction sectors. Regular use of insulating, heat-resistant, or industrial materials made workers more likely to encounter asbestos dust. Some common high-risk locations included:
- Shipyards in coastal cities like Wilmington, Beaufort, and New Bern
- Manufacturing and textile plants in Charlotte, Greensboro, and High Point
- Power plants and industrial facilities throughout the state
- Chemical plants and refineries in both eastern and central North Carolina
- Construction sites statewide
Compensation Available in Asbestos Exposure Cases
Workers exposed to asbestos on the job in North Carolina may be entitled to pursue compensation for their medical expenses, lost income, and other financial and personal losses related to their long-term illness. Depending on the circumstances, that may involve claims through workers’ compensation, asbestos trust funds, and civil lawsuits against responsible third parties. One claimant could have multiple separate claims.
In cases involving mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, compensation may also account for the cost of ongoing treatment and the effect the illness has on their daily life. If a loved one passed away due to asbestos exposure at work, surviving family members may be able to pursue wrongful death claims.
Our experienced North Carolina asbestos lawyers can help you and your family determine your eligibility for compensation and explain your legal rights and options.
Talk to a North Carolina Occupational Asbestos Exposure Attorney Today
Ward Black Law is an award-winning Greensboro law firm serving injured people across North Carolina. If you’re dealing with illness due to industrial asbestos exposure in North Carolina and need skilled legal representation, our team has the successful track record and history of satisfied clients you can trust.
Contact us 24/7 at (800) 531-9191 or contact us online to get started with a free initial consultation.