West Virginia
West Virginia is known for being a mining state. Coal mining is the backbone of West Virginia's economy, but of course the state is home to many other major industries. Some of these industries, including mining operations, have used products made from asbestos at their facilities. The use of these products has put employees of these companies and within these industries at risk for exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is known to lead to diseases, such as mesothelioma, a form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos Exposure in West Virginia
Oil refineries, power plants and chemical plants are also major contributors to the economy of West Virginia. These businesses are generally notorious for having asbestos products at the work site. The products include items such as gaskets that are part of the operating machinery, work uniforms, and insulation.
In a working environment, these products wear down over time. When this happens, the tiny fibers that make up asbestos are allowed to enter the air supply. The fibers are easily inhaled, which can lead to severe health problems. The fibers can also stick to clothing or other items that employees take home with them. When the fibers are moved to other locations, they can become freed into the air again, where others could potentially inhale them.
Removing Asbestos
Do not attempt to remove asbestos on your own. Anyone who finds products that contain asbestos within their homes or businesses must obtain the services of a certified professional to remove these dangerous items. The removal and disposal process must be handled properly, or the asbestos fibers can become airborne and you will then be at risk for exposure, and for exposing others.
Every state has a variety of companies that specialize is the removal of toxic materials. Look online or in your phone book for a listing of asbestos professionals if you encounter any such materials.
Asbestos related deaths in West Virginia
The EWG Action Fund put together the results from a study done between 1979 and 1999 on the number of deaths from asbestos exposure that led to diseases like Mesothelioma. The total for West Virginia during this time was 594.
The three counties which reported the highest number of deaths in the state were Kanawha County, Cabell County and Putnam County.
Asbestos lawsuits in West Virginia
The commonality of asbestos in many work sites in West Virginia has led to a large number of lawsuits over the years. Today the use of asbestos is regulated, but even in 2008 there was at least one new claim filed that was related to asbestos.
If you have been exposed to asbestos, you may be eligible to pursue financial compensation in the event of death or injury.
What to do if you have been exposed to asbestos
First off, seek medical treatment. Many people who have been diagnosed with diseases related to asbestos exposure have opted to file a lawsuit. In order to have your claim accepted, it must be done within the time frame indicated by the state's statute of limitation. In West Virginia the time limit is two years for both wrongful death and for negligence/personal injury.
Information is available on what to do if you have been exposed to asbestos. We are proud to offer an information packet to anyone who has faced exposure to this toxic material or family members of those facing illness. Contact us today for your copy of this informative and complimentary packet.
Last modified: December 09 2009.
