Oklahoma
Oklahoma was once a leader in the production of oil. While other industries now lead the economic climate of this state, the production of oil has put many Oklahoma residents at risk of breathing in asbestos fibers, which were a critical part of Oklahoma’s industrial oil operations.
Asbestos Exposure in Oklahoma
Oil refineries used many products that were created from asbestos to help with the drilling and processing of oil. Asbestos is a naturally flame retardant material that was used in many items from gaskets in the machinery to protective clothing worn by plant workers. Over time, these materials broke down, and the asbestos fibers were released into the air. This not only put the refinery employees in danger, but also the friends and families of the workers. Any asbestos fibers that clung to a plant worker could be inhaled by any individual that worker came into contact with. This was a major cause of the spreading of asbestos related diseases, such as mesothelioma, a rare thoracic cancer.
Removing Asbestos
The oil refining industry that once defined Oklahoma's economic status has given way to other, more environmentally friendly industries. However any home or business owner who finds asbestos materials on the premises should contact a professional company that is certified to remove this toxic material. The Environmental Network lists two options: Art McSparen at Enercon Services, Inc and Brian Schmidt at Safety Tech, Inc. You should never try to remove or dispose of asbestos on your own.
Asbestos related deaths in Oklahoma
Oklahoma reported 336 deaths from diseases related to asbestos, such as Mesothelioma. A study conducted by the EWG Action Fund listed Oklahoma County, Tulsa County and Kay County as the top three leading counties for asbestos related deaths in this state.
Asbestos lawsuits in Oklahoma
There have been several high profile lawsuits filed in Oklahoma in which the victims have claimed that companies knew that they had dangerous asbestos materials on site, and yet did nothing to remove them or warn people about it. These cases have been going on and making news as recently as 2007.
If you live in Oklahoma and have been put at risk for exposure, it is important you explore legal options as well.
What to do if you have been exposed to Asbestos
Most importantly, contact a physician familiar with asbestos related health complications or thoracic cancers. If you have been exposed, and plan to seek legal counsel, you will need to know that the statute of limitations for both negligence/personal injury and for wrongful death is two years in Oklahoma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos should take immediate action. If you, or anyone you know, have been exposed to materials that contain asbestos, request a copy of our free information packet for resources on how to proceed.
Last modified: December 09 2009.
