Tennessee
Tennessee is a state that relies heavily on industry to support its economy. Any industrial site is a prime location for asbestos use and likewise, exposure.
Asbestos Exposure in Tennessee
Tennessee has various work sites such as power plants, energy facilities and nuclear power stations that have used many asbestos related products. These companies often use items made from asbestos to insulate their machinery. The problem begins when these products break down and crumble. Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers, so when it is broken down, the fibers get into the air and can be easily inhaled. The fibers will also stick to clothing and other personal items, and can therefore be taken to other locations as well.
The asbestos fibers can lead to lung cancer diseases such as Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is very dangerous and can be fatal.
A major Post Office facility in Tennessee was also found to have asbestos within the tiles on the floor. This put employees and frequent postal customers at risk of exposure.
Another site that exposed a large number of people to asbestos was the International Paper Company. This one company became responsible for hundreds of people breathing in asbestos and contracting Mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases. In 2002 a study determined that at least 36% of the employees of the paper company that were employed for a year or longer were exposed to this dangerous substance.
Removing Asbestos
A site with a tremendous amount of asbestos may need to be shut down to be properly cleaned, or in some cases even demolished.
Asbestos is also frequently found in private residences and small businesses. Any building or home is subject to the presence of asbestos in the insulation. Asbestos is commonly found in insulation that has been used in a wide variety of locations.
You should never attempt to remove asbestos on your own. It is not safe, and you will put yourself at great risk. Find a qualified professional to remove any asbestos on your premises.
The Environmental Network provides a list of companies that are certified to safely remove and dispose of asbestos. Their website lists four such companies in Tennessee: API Services llc, Honesty Environmental services, Inc., MARC Integrated Consulting, Tetra Tech EM, Inc. If you discover asbestos in any building you have entered, contact one of these companies or check your phone book for another certified company to properly remove it.
Asbestos related deaths in Tennessee
A major study was conducted between 1979 and 1999 to determine the number of asbestos related fatalities in every state. The results were put together by The EWG Action Fund and released to the public.
During this time, Tennessee reported 676 deaths from asbestos related diseases. The top three counties for exposure included Davidson County, Knox County and Shelby County.
Asbestos lawsuits in Tennessee
As with every state, there have been a significant number of lawsuits brought forth due to asbestos exposure. Legal professionals specialize in these cases, and will help you proceed with a legal action if you have caught a disease following being exposed to this toxic material.
What to do if you have been exposed to asbestos
First off, seek medical treatment. You may choose to seek legal counsel. Before doing so, you will need to know the statute of limitations for negligence/personal injury and wrongful death. In Tennessee, both of these categories have a one year statute of limitations. This means you will have to act fast if you have been exposed and want to pursue legal action.
Find out more about what you should do if you have been exposed to asbestos by requesting a copy our free informative packet.
Last modified: December 09 2009.
