Pipefitters & Leukemia
Pipefitters have been integral to the growth of industry in the United States. Unfortunately, pipefitters are at an increased risk of developing certain blood and bone cancers including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), multiple myeloma (MM), and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). It has been known for years that these cancers can be caused by exposure to benzene, a sweet-smelling toxin.
How were pipefitters exposed to Benzene?
Pipefitters work in many commercial and industrial settings where benzene is present such as petroleum refineries and chemical facilities. Exposures to toxic levels of benzene could occur at multiple points of the mechanical piping system. Fitters used products such as Liquid Wrench, WD-40, and other penetrating oils to loosen connections between pipes and valves, pumps, and air compressors. Much of the Liquid Wrench sold in the US throughout the 1960s and 1970s contained more than 4% benzene.
Pipefitters who have worked at coke-manufacturing facilities have successfully brought lawsuits because benzene is a byproduct of coke production. This benzene can be sold once captured. Unfortunately, while care was often taken to capture the benzene, proper care was not taken to protect the fitters who were changing packing on valves or servicing, installing, or replacing pumps. Pipefitters at coke facilities have testified that they inhaled benzene vapors and got benzene or benzene-containing products on their skin. Benzene exposures, even those occurring decades ago, can lead to leukemia diagnosis today.
Pipefitters: Find out if your leukemia is related to benzene.
These cases are difficult to undertake. Our experts know how chemicals like benzene cause certain cancers. Our experienced attorneys will identify the proper defendants who produced and distributed the benzene-containing products. If you or a loved one worked as a pipefitter and have been diagnosed with a blood or bone cancer, call 1-800-BENZENE and speak to an attorney today. All consultations are free.
