Asbestos Exposure in Pennsylvania Sheet Metal Workers: What Families Need to Know

Introduction: Why Pennsylvania Sheet Metal Workers Are at Risk

Pennsylvania’s steel mills, shipyards, power plants, and schools employed thousands of sheet metal workers. Because asbestos was widely used in these industries, workers often inhaled toxic fibers on the job. Decades later, many are suffering from mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos diseases.

Where Pennsylvania Sheet Metal Workers Encountered Asbestos

Common exposure sites in Pennsylvania included:

• Philadelphia Navy Yard: Shipbuilding and repairs with asbestos insulation.

• Bethlehem Steel: Mills and foundries with asbestos-lined machinery.

• Pittsburgh Steel Mills and Power Plants: Boilers, turbines, and duct systems.

• Marcus Hook Refineries: Asbestos in pipes and processing equipment.

• Schools and Hospitals Built Before 1980: Ducts, ceilings, and insulation contained asbestos.

Workers frequently inhaled fibers during cutting, fitting, welding, and demolition.

Health Risks for Pennsylvania Workers

Asbestos exposure causes diseases that may take 20–50 years to appear:

• Mesothelioma

• Lung Cancer

• Asbestosis

• Pleural disease

These conditions can be fatal and require specialized medical care.

Symptoms to Watch For

Families of PA sheet metal workers should look for:

• Persistent cough

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain or tightness

• Fatigue and weight loss

Early detection can improve treatment and strengthen legal claims.

Legal Rights in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has one of the busiest asbestos litigation systems in the country, with the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas handling many cases. Workers may be eligible for:

• Asbestos trust fund claims

• Lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers

  
  

State law imposes strict filing deadlines, so immediate action is critical.

Treatment Resources in Pennsylvania

• Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia)

• UPMC Hillman Cancer Center (Pittsburgh)

• Fox Chase Cancer Center (Philadelphia)

These facilities provide leading mesothelioma and asbestos-related disease care.

How Our Firm Helps

Cohen, Placitella & Roth has represented Pennsylvania asbestos victims for decades. We identify exposure sources, work with top medical experts, and pursue justice through litigation and trust fund claims.

Call to Action

If you or a loved one worked as a sheet metal worker in Pennsylvania and developed an asbestos-related illness, reach out today. We offer free case evaluations and help families secure the justice and financial support they deserve.