Have you been exposed to asbestos? Many victims wonder where their exposure occurred and who is responsible for their asbestos-related diseases. In the cases of those that file lawsuits or claims, knowing who is to blame for their condition is essential information that will help them attain compensation. Let’s take a look at some common culprits of asbestos exposure:
Asbestos Manufacturers
Despite their claims, many asbestos manufacturers were aware of the dangers of asbestos exposure before the substance was declared a hazard to human health by the Environmental Protection Agency. Those that created asbestos products, including gaskets, automobile brakes, insulation, and more, knowingly exposed workers and consumers who handled and bought these products to dangerous asbestos fibers.
Many asbestos manufacturers have been found guilty of failing to warn individuals about the dangers of the substance.
Employers
Today, employers are required to keep workers safe while on the job. They are required to follow strict protocols set in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to properly inform employees of the dangers of asbestos, as well as train them to handle the substance in ways that produce the lowest risk for exposure. Oftentimes, these rules and regulations are not followed, putting many blue-collar workers at risk for asbestos-related disease diagnoses in the future.
Many employers, including contractors, factories, and others, have been found guilty of knowingly allowing their employees to handle asbestos products without proper knowledge or training on how to work with the substance.
Naturally-Occurring Asbestos
Sometimes it is not really anyone’s fault for asbestos exposure, since it is a naturally-occurring mineral within our earth. Naturally-occurring asbestos has been found in many states across America, with Nevada being one of the most recent. In this case, there is no one to sue or blame for your exposure. Those living in locations like the El Dorado Hills in California are encouraged to keep their windows closed and stay indoors on windy days.
If you worked in a mine that harvested the mineral, that is a different story. Asbestos mines are no longer operational in the United States, but many miners who worked within them when they were functioning are developing deadly, asbestos-related diseases today.
Call Us
Have you been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease and wondering who is responsible for your condition? An experienced mesothelioma or asbestos lawyer can help you determine this. Call our office to learn more!
