Houston Asbestos Exposure Sites and Mesothelioma Hotspots
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing, continues to pose a serious health threat to the people of Houston. Despite strict regulations, many older buildings, factories, refineries, and shipyards still contain this dangerous substance. When asbestos fibers become airborne, they can be inhaled or ingested, leading to devastating diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. At Throneberry Law Group, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of those affected by asbestos exposure and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve.
Houston Companies and Products With Asbestos RisksMany Houston workers have been exposed to asbestos on the job, often without proper safety equipment or warnings about the risks. Some notable hotspots include:
- Oil Refineries: Houston is known as the "Energy Capital of the World" due to its many oil refineries. These facilities have used asbestos extensively in the past for insulation, gaskets, and fireproofing. Workers at refineries like ExxonMobil Baytown, Shell Deer Park, and Chevron Pasadena may be at risk.
- Chemical Plants: The Houston area is home to numerous chemical manufacturing plants, many of which were built with asbestos-containing materials. Employees at facilities like Dow Chemical Freeport, DuPont La Porte, and BASF Freeport could have been exposed.
- Shipyards and Ports: As a major shipping hub, Houston has several shipyards and port facilities where asbestos was commonly used in ship construction and repair. Todd Shipyards, Houston Ship Channel, and Port of Houston are some sites where exposure may have occurred.
- Power Plants: Many power generating stations in Houston were constructed with asbestos components like boilers, turbines, and generators. Workers at plants like W.A. Parish Generating Station and Sam Houston Power Plant are at potential risk.
- Construction Sites: Asbestos was widely used in building materials like insulation, drywall, flooring, and roofing. Construction workers who installed, maintained, or demolished these materials could have been exposed. Notable projects in Houston that used asbestos include the Astrodome, Texas Medical Center, and downtown high-rises.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, it is crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. Here are some important steps to take:
- Seek medical treatment from doctors experienced in diagnosing and treating asbestos illnesses. The Texas Medical Center has several world-class cancer centers with mesothelioma specialists.
- Gather information about your work history, including the companies you worked for, job sites, and co-workers who may be able to confirm your asbestos exposure. This evidence will be vital for any legal claim.
- Contact an experienced Houston mesothelioma attorney who can advise you of your options and guide you through the complex legal process. Look for a firm with a proven track record of success in asbestos litigation.
Throneberry Law Group understands the devastating impact that asbestos exposure can have on Houston families. We have seen firsthand the pain and suffering caused by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. That is why our Houston mesothelioma attorneys are committed to holding negligent companies accountable and obtaining maximum compensation for our clients. If you suspect that you or someone you love has been harmed by asbestos, do not hesitate to reach out for a free consultation.