Asbestos

Contractor’s Negligence in Harlem Construction Puts Workers and Residents at Risk of Mesothelioma

January 6, 2025 | Throneberry Law Group

In a troubling case that sheds light on the consequences of negligence, a New Jersey contractor pleaded guilty to endangering the lives of workers and residents by releasing asbestos in an East Harlem, New York neighborhood. The contractor, Jose Correa, released the dangerous substance during a construction project in the neighborhood. Correa risks being imprisoned for up to one year. How long he goes to jail is up to the judge presiding over the case in New York.

Asbestos is a dangerous mineral that was once widely used in several industries due to its attractive qualities. However, being exposed to asbestos carries significant health risks. Asbestos exposure can cause various illnesses, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. These diseases occur when a person inhales or ingests asbestos fibers, which get stuck in the body. Unfortunately, it can take many years for a person to develop an asbestos-related illness after initial exposure. Mesothelioma, for instance, can take 40 years or even more to develop after being exposed to asbestos. Despite the extensive knowledge about the risks of asbestos and the strict rules in place to prevent exposure, some individuals and companies still bypass the necessary precautions, resulting in significant harm.

Jose Correa failed to perform inspections and did not use asbestos abatement professionals during a construction project at an East Harlem supermarket. Instead of doing things right, the contractor opted to cut corners and do the work ‘on the cheap.’ Correa had his untrained employees perform this dangerous work that required specialized knowledge. He did not even provide workers with basic safety equipment, such as protective masks and suits. The contractor’s decision to neglect safety measures resulted in workers and close residents unknowingly being exposed to asbestos and being at risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

Todd Shipyard Worker Blames Multiple Companies for His Mesothelioma

December 10, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

For purposes of this article, the mesothelioma victim in this case will be referred to as J.S. or Mr. S.

This case is about a construction worker, J.S., who worked at the Todd Shipyards for years and was later diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that is primarily linked to asbestos exposure. In his lawsuit, J.S. names multiple companies as defendants. He blames these companies for having negligently exposed him to the asbestos that led to him developing his illness. His case has involved demands for records from him and requests for dismissal from the case from many companies.

According to Mr. S, his mesothelioma stems from exposure to asbestos-contaminated products used in ship construction and repair at Todd Shipyards between 1960 and 1964. While working at Todd Shipyards, the mesothelioma victim was exposed to equipment from Foster Wheeler, including marine boilers. He was also exposed to products like DAP joint compound, Kaiser Gypsum, and other materials made with Vanderbilt Talc.

Can Mesothelioma Be Prevented?

December 5, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the tissue layer that covers most internal organs, is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring minerals. These minerals, which occur as masses of strong, flexible fibers, were widely used in the 20th century to insulate, strengthen, and fireproof many commercial items and products. Asbestos can be found in finished products such as walls, pipes, tiles, cement, insulation, roofing shingles, ceiling tiles, and many more. Because asbestos is the biggest risk factor for mesothelioma, reducing exposure to this substance is the most effective way of lowering the risk of mesothelioma development. This article explores how people can protect themselves from asbestos exposure and, thus, from developing mesothelioma.

Understanding How Asbestos Exposure Causes Mesothelioma

As mentioned already, the leading cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a hazardous mineral that used to be common in many industries, including construction, shipbuilding, insulation production, and automotive manufacturing. The use of asbestos has significantly declined over recent decades. When asbestos is left undisturbed, it is generally not dangerous. When this substance is disturbed or damaged, or when it deteriorates, tiny, microscopic fibers are released into the air, which can be inhaled or ingested. Asbestos fibers can get stuck in the mesothelium. Over time, this can result in inflammation or scarring, which can then lead to the development of mesothelioma.

What is the Criterion for a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?

September 22, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma can be devastating for patients and their families. Fortunately, mesothelioma victims and their families may be eligible to file mesothelioma lawsuits and pursue justice and compensation. If you or a loved one recently got a mesothelioma diagnosis, you may be wondering whether you are eligible to file a mesothelioma lawsuit. You may be asking, “What are the criteria for a mesothelioma lawsuit?” This article examines the criteria that must be met for a person to pursue a mesothelioma lawsuit.

A Mesothelioma Diagnosis

The most critical criterion for a mesothelioma lawsuit is a formal diagnosis from a qualified medical professional. To diagnose mesothelioma, a doctor may order imaging scans, such as X-rays and CT scans. Based on the findings, the doctor may order more tests to determine if mesothelioma is causing the symptoms. However, a biopsy is the only way to determine if a person has mesothelioma. This entails removing a small portion of tissue and examining it in a laboratory. Once mesothelioma is confirmed, the doctor may recommend additional tests to determine if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

South Carolina Jury Awards $63.4 Million to Mesothelioma Victim in Case Against Johnson & Johnson

September 8, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

For purposes of this article, the mesothelioma victim in this case will be referred to as M.P.

In a recent court decision, a South Carolina state court jury awarded $63.4 million to a man diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma in a case against Johnson & Johnson (J&J). The compensation amount is meant to cover both punitive and compensatory damages. M.P. was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive illness that develops after asbestos exposure, at the age of 53. He blamed his illness on his lifelong use of Johnson & Johnson’s talc powder.

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is rare in the United States. Statistics suggest that about 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are diagnosed in the United States annually. Mesothelioma develops after a person is exposed to asbestos. However, this illness does not develop immediately after exposure. It can take decades for mesothelioma to develop after asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is resistant to heat, fire, and many chemicals. This made asbestos useful in many industries and products. However, when asbestos is disturbed, it releases fibers into the air, which, when inhaled or ingested, can become lodged in the lungs or other tissues, leading to serious health issues like mesothelioma.

NIST Scientists Discover a Cost-Effective and Easier Technique for Asbestos Detection

July 24, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

Asbestos, a mineral that was used extensively throughout much of the 20^th century, can cause aggressive and fatal illnesses like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. While the use of asbestos has virtually been eliminated, this substance remains a huge threat to this day. Legacy asbestos, which refers to asbestos-containing materials that were installed in buildings, structures, or products before the dangers of asbestos became widely known, poses ongoing risks if disturbed or damaged. Because of the threat posed by asbestos, detecting the presence of this substance is crucial.

For a long time, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has been the go-to method for detecting asbestos in schools, factories, and other buildings. To test for asbestos in buildings, inspectors have had to collect samples from the buildings and submit them to a specialized lab with highly trained staff for examination using TEM. Some states require or recommend using TEM for asbestos testing during the removal process in commercial properties.

However, transmission electron microscopy is complex and can be expensive. Another method that can be used to test for asbestos is phase contrast microscopy. This method is less costly and easier than TEM but less accurate. Now, researchers from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) say they have found a better way of detecting asbestos. NIST researchers Jason Holm and Elisabeth Mansfield say scanning electron microscopy (SEM) can be a suitable substitute for TEM in asbestos testing. The researchers say that SEM can produce results comparable to TEM. SEM, which is cheaper and more convenient than TEM, could speed up and reduce the expenses associated with asbestos remediation in the U.S.

What if I Buy a House That Contains Asbestos?

July 22, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

Asbestos is a well-known hazardous substance that can lead to the development of several illnesses, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. It can be unsafe to live in a house that contains asbestos. Before buying a house, it is crucial to understand whether it contains asbestos. In most of the United States, home sellers are required to disclose any major defects to buyers. Most state laws require sellers to make formal property disclosures covering major home components, systems, and conditions, including whether a home contains asbestos. This ensures buyer education and precaution and the proper proactive steps are taken before physical handling/renovation/demolition. So, what if you buy a house containing asbestos? If you suspect that your home contains asbestos, it is vital that you don’t handle the suspected area by yourself. You should contact an asbestos abatement company. Read on for more information.

Many Old Houses in the U.S. Contain Asbestos

America has a long history of asbestos use. Asbestos has been in use in the United States since the 19^th century. However, in the 1970s, the U.S. began regulating asbestos after studies linked asbestos exposure to severe illnesses like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. This led to the EPA and OSHA implementing strict rules and regulations. However, despite reduced use, asbestos remains in many old buildings, including homes. Asbestos was used in many homes because of its fireproofing and insulation properties. In the United States, many homes built before the 1980s contain asbestos. Asbestos materials in homes that may contain asbestos include roofing, insulation, and textured paint.

What Should I Do if I Find Asbestos in a School?

April 5, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

Asbestos was once widely used in the construction industry because of its fire-resistant and insulation properties. After the dangers of this material became widely known, its use was limited. The use of asbestos has been regulated in the United States of America since the early 1970s. However, because many buildings built before the 1980s were constructed using asbestos-contaminated materials, it is common for asbestos to still be present in buildings, including school buildings. The issue is that if asbestos remains undetected in a school building, it may be accidentally disturbed. Asbestos is harmless if left undisturbed. However, if disturbed, it can result in tiny microscopic fibers being released into the air, which, when inhaled or ingested, can cause serious health issues. If no one knows of the existence of asbestos in a school, teachers, other staff, students, parents, and other community members may continually breathe in those fibers without realizing it. If asbestos is discovered in a school, it can save many people’s lives. But what should you do if you find asbestos in a school? Read on to find out.

What to Do if You Discover Asbestos in a School

Prompt and careful action is necessary after asbestos is discovered in a school. If there is asbestos in a school, the following are the steps to take to ensure your safety and the safety of others;

Woman Names More Than 30 Cosmetic Companies in Her Mesothelioma Lawsuit

March 26, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

A woman recently filed a mesothelioma lawsuit against more than 30 cosmetic companies in the Massachusetts Superior Court for Middlesex County. The woman, who was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2023, alleges that these brands’ talcum powder products led to her diagnosis. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops after someone is exposed to asbestos. Some of the companies named in the lawsuit include Johnson & Johnson, Chanel, Marky Kay, L’Oreal, Maybelline, and Pfizer. This case sheds light on the potential dangers lurking within the everyday skincare products that countless people use in America and around the globe.

Understanding How Cosmetics are Linked to Mesothelioma

It may come as a shock to many that cosmetics can lead to the development of mesothelioma. One may wonder how this is possible when asbestos is not one of the ingredients used in cosmetics. The connection between cosmetics and mesothelioma stems from the use of talc in these products. Talc, an organic mineral, is used in cosmetic products because of its ability to absorb moisture. However, talc is often found near asbestos in the earth’s soil. Asbestos is a mineral that consists of microscopic fibers, which, when inhaled or ingested, can irritate cell linings near the lungs or abdominal cavity.

EPA Bans Chrysotile Asbestos

March 25, 2024 | Throneberry Law Group

For over five decades, mesothelioma and asbestos-related disease advocates have been fighting for asbestos to be banned in the United States of America. Finally, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made a decision that has been applauded by many. EPA finalized a rule that prohibits people from importing and using chrysotile asbestos in the U.S. ADAO is one of the mesothelioma and asbestos-related advocates that acknowledged that the recent ruling by EPA will help in the fight against asbestos and asbestos-related illnesses. However, ADAO highlighted that the rule’s limited scope is not enough. The organization noted that this rule may not be sufficient to keep Americans safe from asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases.

The EPA has banned chrysotile asbestos for six conditions of use. This ban means that users of chrysotile asbestos are no longer allowed to import it into the country. The EPA rule bans the use of chrysotile asbestos in several sectors. Several industries must now transition away from chrysotile industries, including the chlor-alkali, refining, chemical, and brake clock industries. However, there are concerns about the extended changeover period allowed by EPA’s ruling. There are also concerns about the ruling’s inconsistencies in compliance deadlines. There are fears that the extended changeover period and the inconsistencies in compliance deadlines will allow people to continue suffering chrysotile asbestos exposure for a long time to come.

Another concern arises from the fact that the EPA ruling only addresses chrysotile asbestos. The rule does not address five asbestos fibers: crocidolite, tremolite, amosite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. In other words, the EPA has not yet fully banned asbestos in the U.S. Regulators believe that chrysotile is the only type of asbestos being used or brought into the U.S. However, critics believe regulators may not know of other uses and may lack all the information. According to ADAO, the EPA ruling’s limited scope shows that asbestos use and imports will only end completely when Congress passes a comprehensive asbestos ban prohibiting all six types of asbestos. ADAO mentioned the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act (ARBAN) as a critical piece of legislation necessary to pave the way for a future free from asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases. ADAO counsel Bob Sussman noted that without legislation, exposure to asbestos fibers with the same deadly properties as chrysotile asbestos would continue.