Asbestos &amp; Mesothelioma News

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Lack of asbestos permits puts Pittsburgh community at risk for exposure

Prior to regulations established in the 1970s and 1980s, asbestos was commonly used in building materials such as roofing, tiles, insulation and more. Because of this, many homes built before the new laws contain the deadly fiber, undisturbed above their heads and below their feet. When demolition of a property is commissioned, a major concern is securing the proper permits and safety for all those near the site. In some cases, contractors may forget or move forward without asbestos clearances, possibly releasing the fibers into the air. Asbestos removal is time consuming and expensive, causing companies to try to complete the project...

29 May

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Workers still exposed to asbestos at high levels

Many years have passed since asbestos use became limited in the United States, yet the effects are still felt by workers and families alike. Those employed by steel mills, paper mills, shipyards and more put their lives in danger every day simply by going to work. Unlike other substances, overall evidence suggests there isn’t a safe level of asbestos exposure and any amount can lead to health problems. Numerous countries around the world have enforced an asbestos ban, but others continue using the dangerous fibers at different levels. During the peak year of 1980, asbestos use hit 4.7 trillion metric tons....

29 May

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Asbestos-related deaths in Allegheny County surpass national average

Recent media coverage of the Environmental Working Group Action Fund’s interactive map highlighting the number of asbestos deaths in the United States brings to light many issues we’re reminded of every day. As asbestos attorneys, we see just how devastating the effects can be through our clients and their families. This reality hits home in Allegheny County. In Monday’s Post-Gazette, Don Hopey wrote about the findings in an article titled “Study: Asbestos deaths in Allegheny County, Pa. much higher than national average.” Because of the area’s history in industry, especially with steel mills, the residents have higher than the national...

29 May

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May Day marks bloody history for workers rights in United States