Galesburg Yard: A Hub of Rail Activity with Troubling Toxic Incidents
Galesburg Yard, situated in Galesburg, Illinois, is a crucial component of the BNSF Railway network. Established in the early 20th century, it has grown to become one of the largest rail classification yards in the United States. This facility handles a vast volume of rail traffic, with thousands of freight cars passing through daily, making it a central hub for the sorting and dispatching of goods across the nation.
Despite its importance in logistics and transportation, Galesburg Yard has not been without issues, particularly concerning toxic events. Recently, a significant toxic incident occurred at the yard, involving the spill of hazardous chemicals. Specifically, a derailment led to the release of benzene and hydrochloric acid. This event posed immediate health hazards to the workers at the site, exposing them to toxic fumes and potential long-term health effects.
The implications of such toxic incidents extend beyond the confines of the rail yard. The surrounding community is also at risk, as hazardous chemicals can contaminate the air and water sources, leading to potential respiratory issues, skin irritations, and other serious health problems. Additionally, the environmental impact of such spills can be devastating, affecting local wildlife and ecosystems.
For the workers at Galesburg Yard, exposure to these dangerous chemicals can result in acute health issues, such as respiratory distress and chemical burns, and chronic conditions that may develop over time. The yard’s frequent handling of hazardous materials underscores the ongoing risks faced by those who work in such high-stakes environments.
In conclusion, while Galesburg Yard remains a pivotal part of the rail network, the recent toxic event highlights the serious and potentially lasting negative effects on both the workforce and the local community, emphasizing the urgent need for stringent safety measures and oversight in rail yard operations.
Toxic Exposures at the Galesburg Rail Yard
Diesel Exhaust: Diesel exhaust is a complex mixture of gases and particulates produced by diesel engines. Long-term exposure can lead to serious health problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Railroaders are often exposed to excess diesel exhaust from locomotives idling in rail yards.
Benzene: Benzene is a component of diesel fuel and also used as a solvent in parts washers and in the production of other chemicals. Long-term exposure to benzene can lead to leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Minimizing exposure to benzene is crucial.
Solvents: Parts washers and solvents are often used my mechanics to clean tools.
Silica: Silica dust is produced during operations like track maintenance. Inhalation of silica dust can lead to silicosis, a chronic lung disease, and an increased risk of lung cancer.
Asbestos: Asbestos was widely used in the railroad industry due to its heat-resistant properties. Railroad brakes often contained asbestos. Exposure to asbestos can lead to diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Contact an experienced railroad cancer lawyer if you have been diagnosed with any lung-related disease.
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Common Diagnoses Among Railroaders
Exposure to numerous carcinogens including asbestos, silica dust, diesel exhaust, degreasers, solvents, welding fumes and other toxic compounds can cause cancer in railroaders. Many traditional safety briefings and training did not warn railroad workers that their on-the-job exposures could lead to a life-changing diagnosis.
Cancer:
- Bladder Cancer
- Colorectal Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Laryngeal Cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Stomach Cancer
Leukemia:
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
- Multiple Myeloma (MM)
- Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)
Pulmonary conditions:
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Reactive Airway Disease (RADS)
Neurological:
Legal Guidance After Your Life-Changing Diagnosis
Our team of experienced railroad cancer lawyers is ready to review your case for free. If we believe you have a valid claim, we will file a lawsuit on your behalf. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. This ensures that you can pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Discuss your case with one of our lawyers without any obligation. During this consultation, we will assess the merits of your case and guide you on the best course of action.
Gianaris Trial Lawyers represents railroaders with life-changing injuries and diagnoses including cancer, leukemia, and pulmonary conditions caused by exposures on the railroad. Every job on the railroad comes with a unique set of exposures that can make railroaders sick. We stand behind these railroaders and hold their employers accountable across the country.
