Wisconsin
Wisconsin does not have any naturally occurring deposits of asbestos. The state does border Michigan, so there are asbestos deposits nearby, but the Michigan deposits have never been mined. So while naturally-induced exposure risk isn’t relevant, there are a great deal of industrial and jobsite asbestos exposure sites within Wisconsin.
Asbestos Exposure in Wisconsin
The companies that were responsible for the highest levels of asbestos exposure were the power plants, manufacturing facilities, and paper mills. Each of these businesses utilized a variety of products which were made with asbestos. Insulation is commonly created using either asbestos materials, or a material called vermiculite. Natural vermiculite deposits are commonly found near asbestos deposits, so any product created with vermiculite is likely to also have asbestos mixed in. Asbestos was also included in some of the equipment used in the paper mills throughout Wisconsin. Employees of these mills were put at great risk for exposure.
Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers. Whenever any of the products that were made with asbestos would break apart or crumble, these fibers would be released into the air. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause diseases. The most common disease is a lung cancer known as mesothelioma, and it can be fatal. Asbestos fibers that are floating in the atmosphere are also easily attached to clothing and other items. This makes it possible for asbestos to be taken to other locations, allowing for a wider range of exposure to this toxic material.
Removing Asbestos
Asbestos removal is very tricky and dangerous. If it is not done correctly, anyone attempting to remove a product made from asbestos will be at risk for exposure. For this reason, only a certified professional should ever attempt to remove or dispose of this harmful material.
The state of Wisconsin regulates maintains asbestos related safety information. If you have asbestos materials inside your home or office, contact a state licensed abatement firm.
Asbestos related deaths in Wisconsin
Every state has endured the tragedy of deaths caused by mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases. The danger was so wide-spread that a study was done all over America to determine exactly how many deaths had occurred following exposure to asbestos.
The study lasted from 1979 to 1999. In this time period, there were 725 fatalities listed in Wisconsin. The counties with the most fatalities were Milwaukee County, Kenosha County and Waukesha County.
Asbestos lawsuits in Wisconsin
Over the years there have been thousands of lawsuits brought forth by people who had been involved with a case of exposure to asbestos. The use of asbestos has now been regulated and controlled, but even today there are existing court cases within Wisconsin.
If you, or anyone you know has been subjected to exposure from asbestos, you many be eligible for legal recourse as well.
What to do if you have been exposed to asbestos
First off, seek medical opinions with details about your own exposure and the severity or your case.
Anyone who has developed a disease due to exposure from asbestos may wish to file a lawsuit. In order to do so, you must file before the statute of limitations expires. In Wisconsin, the statue of limitations is three years for both wrongful death and negligence/personal injury.
Don't face exposure to asbestos without the information you need! If you have been exposed, contact us for a free information packet with details on mesothelioma, mesothelioma treatment and legal actions you can use.
Last modified: December 09 2009.
