Wyoming
Wyoming does have naturally occurring deposits of asbestos (in particular, chrysotile asbestos). They have never been mined, and they are located in areas that are not heavily populated. Wyoming is a large state (the tenth largest in America) but it is also the state with the lowest population. So while, natural exposures are theoretically possible, it is much more likely an exposure would occur within an industrial or jobsite setting.
Asbestos Exposure in Wyoming
Wyoming is home to oil refineries, power plants and chemical plants. Every one of those industries commonly used products that were made from asbestos. The products included components within the machinery, clothing worn by employees and insulation used throughout the buildings.
In a heavy industry environment, these products would often break apart or crack. Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers, so when this would happen the fibers were allowed to float into the air, making them easy to inhale or get stuck on the clothing and other items employees would bring with them after work hours. The fibers that were inadvertently taken out of the plant by being attached to employees and their belongings would often later become airborne again. This led to people who came into contact with plant employees, such as spouses and children, also being at risk of exposure to asbestos.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they stay within the body for many years. Once this deadly substance is inhaled, it can cause a lot of internal body damage and cancer. The two most common diseases related to asbestos inhalation are Mesothelioma and Asbestosis.
Removing Asbestos
If you find asbestos products in your home or business, do not try to remove them. Asbestos is commonly found in insulation, but only a certified professional should ever remove or discard asbestos. If this job is not done correctly, the fibers may easily be released into the air, bringing with them the risk of exposure and disease.
Every state has professionals that are certified to remove asbestos. The Environmental Network lists two within Wyoming: Big Horn Contractors, Inc. in Burns, and Century Environmental Hygiene in Cheyenne. If you do find asbestos on your property, find a qualified company and have them remove it.
Asbestos related deaths in Wyoming
Wyoming has the smallest population of any state, but it has still suffered from deaths caused by exposure to asbestos. A major study was conducted on a state by state basis to determine how many individuals had died from asbestos related diseases such as Mesothelioma. Between 1979 and 1999, there were 67 deaths reported in Wyoming.
The results of the study were put together by The EWG Action Fund. They also stated the three counties in the state that had the highest numbers of fatalities. The counties included: Laramie County, Natrona County and Albany County.
Asbestos lawsuits in Wyoming
The residents of Wyoming have not filed as many asbestos related lawsuits as most other states, and there are none currently pending. However there have, of course, been various asbestos related lawsuits filed over the years.
Anyone who has developed a disease of suffered other harm due to asbestos exposure may be eligible for financial compensation in the case of a wrongful exposure.
What to do if you have been exposed to asbestos
First off, seek medical advice from a doctor well versed in thoracic disease with specific details about the severity and duration of your exposure.
If you to file a lawsuit, you must do so before the statue of limitations expires. The statute of limitations in Wyoming is four years for negligence/personal injury and two years for wrongful death.
You will need to know exactly what to do if you or anyone you know has been exposed to asbestos. We provide a free information packet with information on the steps you should take following an exposure. Contact us today to request a copy.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
