Exposing Workers to Asbestos: U-Haul’s Deadly Risk Could Lead to Mesothelioma

U-Haul faces a hefty fine of $231,000 from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries for exposing workers to asbestos.

Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, which is a rare type of cancer with a poor prognosis. Asbestos, which is a group of minerals that can break apart into sharp fibers, can also cause lung cancer and ovarian cancer.

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It primarily affects the lining of the lungs, heart and abdomen. The cancer is almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure, underscoring the dangers of improper handling and lack of proper safety protocols in workplaces like U-Haul’s.

Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma symptoms vary based on the area affected, but the most common signs include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Persistent coughing
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

Since these symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which complicates treatment and outcomes.

How U-Haul Employees Were Exposed to Asbestos at the Facility

The workers were exposed to asbestos at a U-Haul facility in Spokane, Wash. Vinyl flooring and glue containing asbestos were falling apart in the facility. As the flooring deteriorated, it likely released microscopic asbestos fibers into the air.

U-Haul facility employees in Spokane worked right next to or even on the asbestos-filled flooring, which means once the flooring was damaged the workers were breathing in the toxins.

Even though U-Haul received warnings of asbestos exposure, the company didn’t take the right steps to fix the issue – such as hiring an asbestos abatement company to remove the flooring or giving workers proper gear. This left employees in constant danger of inhaling the asbestos, which can cause health issues like mesothelioma.

How to Protect Yourself from Asbestos Exposure

If you work in an industry where asbestos exposure is a risk, it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines. These include using proper protective equipment, ensuring the area is well-ventilated, and maintaining a routine for safe asbestos removal or encapsulation.

U-Haul initially applied epoxy and hired an asbestos contractor, but 7,400 square feet of toxic tiles remained. Workers unknowingly handled asbestos without proper protection, throwing the tiles away in regular trash. U-Haul management was aware of the dangerous practices and encouraged them. 

Employers are responsible for educating their workers on the dangers of asbestos and providing regular training on safe practices.

Asbestos exposure can result in devastating consequences, including mesothelioma. It’s essential for companies to follow safety standards to protect their employees from this invisible but deadly threat. If you believe you’ve been exposed to asbestos, seek medical advice promptly. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and outcomes.

Sources

Local U-Haul franchise fined $231K for asbestos violation. The Spokesman-Review. Retrieved from: https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2025/feb/16/local-u-haul-franchise-fined-231k-for-asbestos-vio/. Accessed: 03/25/2025.