The Global I-IV Intermodal Facilities: A Crucial Hub with Significant Risks
The Global I-IV Intermodal Facilities in Chicago are a vital component of the nation’s rail infrastructure, playing a critical role in the transportation of goods across the United States. These facilities, operated by Union Pacific Railroad, were established in phases over several decades, beginning with Global I in the 1980s and culminating with Global IV, which was opened in 2010. Designed to handle the increasing demand for efficient freight transportation, these facilities see immense daily traffic, with thousands of containers moving through the yards every day. This constant flow underscores the importance of the intermodal facilities to the regional and national economy.
However, with such high traffic and complex operations, the facilities are not without significant risks. Recently, a toxic event at one of the Global Intermodal Facilities highlighted the potential dangers. A hazardous chemical spill occurred, involving a significant quantity of industrial solvents used in container maintenance and repair. These solvents, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene and xylene, are known for their detrimental health effects and environmental hazards.
The spill created an immediate risk to the workers at the facility, many of whom were exposed to harmful fumes. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, neurological damage, and increased cancer risk. Additionally, the surrounding community was not spared from the potential fallout. Airborne contaminants can spread beyond the confines of the yard, posing health risks to nearby residents, including children and the elderly, who are particularly vulnerable to toxic exposure.
Toxic Exposures at the Global I-IV Intermodal Facilities
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.
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.
Call us today at 618-681-9999 for free legal guidance.