When schools undergo renovation or maintenance, teachers and staff often continue working in nearby classrooms. Unfortunately, these projects can release toxic asbestos fibers into the air, putting educators at serious risk of lung disease and other long-term health problems. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos at work and developed related health issues, PLBH can help you pursue workers’ compensation benefits and protect your rights.
How Asbestos Exposure Happens in Schools
Many older schools still contain asbestos in ceiling tiles, insulation, floor tiles, and pipe coverings. When these materials are disturbed during remodeling, dusting, or repairs, microscopic asbestos fibers can become airborne and inhaled.
Common exposure sources include:
- Demolition of old walls, flooring, or ceilings
- HVAC or plumbing repairs that disturb insulation
- Poor containment practices during construction
- Inadequate air filtration or ventilation systems
Even short-term exposure can have serious health effects over time, and symptoms may not appear until years later.
Health Risks Linked to Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos fibers can remain in the lungs for decades, leading to chronic and sometimes fatal illnesses.
Diseases associated with asbestos exposure include:
- Asbestosis (lung scarring)
- Mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lung lining)
- Lung cancer
- Pleural plaques or thickening
Teachers who experience shortness of breath, chronic cough, or chest tightness after school renovations should seek medical attention immediately.
Proving That Asbestos Exposure Was Work-Related
Because asbestos-related illnesses develop slowly, linking your diagnosis to your job can be challenging. Workers’ compensation insurers may argue that exposure happened elsewhere or that the disease is unrelated to work.
To build a strong claim, PLBH can help you collect and organize critical evidence, such as:
- School maintenance or construction records showing asbestos removal or disturbance
- Air quality reports or OSHA violation notices
- Medical documentation connecting the illness to asbestos exposure
- Statements from coworkers or maintenance staff who witnessed unsafe conditions
The goal is to demonstrate that your exposure occurred in the course of your employment and that your illness directly resulted from it.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you suspect your illness was caused by workplace asbestos exposure, don’t delay seeking help. Deadlines for filing claims can vary, and waiting too long may limit your benefits.
Steps to take:
- See a doctor experienced in occupational lung diseases and get a full evaluation.
- Inform your employer about your diagnosis and suspected exposure.
- Gather documentation of any recent renovation or construction activities.
- Consult PLBH to guide you through filing your workers’ compensation claim and appealing any denials.
Benefits Available for Asbestos-Related Illnesses
Approved claims may include:
- Full coverage of medical testing and treatment costs
- Disability benefits for lost wages
- Compensation for long-term care and rehabilitation
- Survivor benefits for dependents in fatal cases
PLBH can also help evaluate whether a third-party lawsuit—against a contractor, manufacturer, or property manager—may be appropriate alongside your workers’ comp claim.
Standing Up for the Teachers Who Inspire Us
Teachers dedicate their lives to shaping future generations and should never have to risk their health in unsafe conditions. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos during school renovations and developed a related illness, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today for a free legal consultation. Our team will fight to ensure you receive the benefits and justice you deserve.