South Carolina
South Carolina has had a big and ongoing problem with asbestos exposure. The state has natural deposits of a substance known as serpentine asbestos, a dangerous form of the mineral.
Asbestos Exposure in South Carolina
South Carolina has several power plants and ship yards. Both of these industries are major users of materials and supplies that are made from asbestos. Because these products are so commonly used, a large number of the residents of South Carolina have been at risk for asbestos exposure. Another major contributor to the problem was the computer processing facility in Greenville, SC. South Carolina's economy was largely made up from these three major industries. With so many companies working with asbestos products, exposure to the harmful substance was wide-spread.
Products made from asbestos and used in shipping facilities or power plants will eventually break down over time. When this happens, the fibers that make up asbestos are freed and enter the atmosphere. From there, the fibers can be easily inhaled, leading to a cancerous disease called Mesothelioma. Since the asbestos fibers will often cling to clothing or any other substance, the employees of these facilities were at risk of this disease, as were families and anyone they came into contact with.
Removing Asbestos
Large facilities such as power plants and ship yards may have to be shut down completely to properly remove and dispose of the asbestos materials. Asbestos is also found in materials used in homes, offices, schools and churches.
No individual should ever try to remove asbestos on their own. Asbestos removal is a very hazardous process, and must be handled only by a certified professional.
Every state has professionals who are qualified to deal with asbestos in a safe manner. Check your local yellow pages or look online to find a company that deals with asbestos removal if you find any at your home or place of work.
Asbestos related deaths in South Carolina
The EWG Action Fund studied the effects of asbestos exposure over a twenty year period of time (1979 - 1999). They determined the number of deaths per state from asbestos related diseases such as Mesothelioma. During the study, there were 634 deaths in South Carolina due to asbestos exposure. Charleston County, Spartanburg County and Berkeley County were found to be the top three counties for the highest mortality rates.
Asbestos lawsuits in South Carolina
South Carolina, like many states, has had a large number of lawsuits brought forth due to asbestos exposure. The dangers of asbestos are now commonly known, but the state had so many facilities that used products made from this toxic material that new claims are being filed even now.
What to do if you have been exposed to asbestos
Firstly, seek medical attention. You may decide to pursue legal action. If so, you will need to file your claim before the statute of limitations has been exceeded. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations is three years for negligence & personal injury, and three years for wrongful death.
For more information on what to do if you've been exposed to asbestos, request our free brochure. It has all the information you need to understand what to do following an exposure.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
