Railroad workers can be exposed to hazardous substances in locomotives, railroad yards, repair shops and during track repair. While many employees understand the immediate dangers of working around trains and moving heavy equipment, few realize that long-term exposure to toxic dusts, fumes, and chemicals may contribute to serious diseases years or even decades later.
Below are seven of the most common occupational exposures railroad workers have encountered and, in many instances, still face today at work which can cause cancer, leukemia, pulmonary fibrosis and other life-threatening diseases.
The Top 7 Toxic Exposures Railroad Workers Face & The Diseases They Cause
1. Asbestos
For much of the twentieth century, asbestos was used extensively throughout the railroad industry.
Workers may have encountered asbestos in:
- Locomotive insulation and gaskets
- Brake systems
- Pipe coverings
- Boilers
- Signal systems
- Maintenance shops
Because asbestos-related cancer and lung diseases take decades to develop, many retired railroad workers are only now being diagnosed.
2. Diesel Exhaust
Diesel-powered locomotives and track repair equipment generate diesel exhaust which contains fine particulate matter and many cancer-causing chemicals, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, formaldehyde, and many others. Many of these chemicals are also found in cigarettes.
Workers at risk include:
- Train crews, including Engineers, Conductors, and Hostlers
- Mechanics
- Shop workers
- Yard employees
- Track machine operators
3. Silica Dust
Railroad track maintenance activities often disturb ballast (rocks) which releases silica-containing ballast dust into the air. In addition, locomotive engineers, brakemen and conductors were exposed to silica from locomotive sanders which provided traction for the locomotive wheels on the rails, especially in steep grades.
Even low-level exposure over many years can contribute to permanent lung damage and cancer.
4. Welding Fumes
Railroad welders, carmen, and maintenance workers can inhale fumes containing manganese, chromium, nickel, and other cancer-causing chemicals.
The risk increases when welding is performed in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.
5. Creosote
Creosote has historically been used to preserve railroad ties and other wood products.
Workers may encounter creosote during:
- Railroad tie replacement
- Track maintenance
- Bridge work
- Signal work
6. Solvents and Degreasers
Railroad diesel locomotive maintenance shops used industrial cleaning products containing potentially hazardous chemicals.
Long-term exposure without adequate protection increases health risks.
7. Metal Dusts and Industrial Particulates
Grinding and cutting activities generate airborne particles that workers may inhale.
Why These Exposures Matter
Many railroad workers were exposed to multiple hazardous substances throughout their careers. A worker may spend decades breathing in diesel exhaust, silica dust, welding fumes, and other contaminants at the same time.
The combined effects of these exposures can significantly increase the risk of developing all different types of cancer and serious lung diseases.
Understanding Your Rights Under FELA
The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) provides important protections for railroad workers suffering from occupational cancer and illnesses.
When a railroad fails to provide a reasonably safe workplace, adequate warnings, proper ventilation, respiratory protection, or other safety measures, injured workers may be entitled to pursue compensation.
Potential damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Future lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability-related losses
Have You Been Diagnosed with Cancer or Lung Disease?
If you are a current or former railroad worker diagnosed with cancer, leukemia, pulmonary fibrosis, mesothelioma, or another occupational disease, it is important to investigate whether your condition may be related to workplace exposures. If your loved one was a railroad worker who has passed away, you may be entitled to significant damages. There are time deadlines in FELA cases, so you should not delay.
Our firm represents railroad workers and their families nationwide in FELA claims involving asbestos, diesel exhaust, silica dust, welding fumes, creosote, and other toxic substances. Contact us today online or toll-free at 1-800-374-2144 for a free and confidential consultation to learn more about your rights!
