There was asbestos exposure in Erie steel mills because the fiber was used as an insulator in the heat making process. Because asbestos is highly heat resistant and was relatively inexpensive for much of the 20th century it was used in any job that involved high heat or friction. Asbestos was commonly used in steel mills throughout Pennsylvania and the United States in general. When the asbestos fibers were disturbed, they would be released into the surrounding environment, putting those working at the steel mills at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease such as:
- Mesothelioma
- Lung Cancer
- Asbestosis
Asbestos Exposure in Erie Steel Mills – Erie Forge & Steel
Erie Forge & Steel forges, heat treats, clads, machines, and assembles marine shafts for the US Navy. At Erie Forge & Steel asbestos insulating boards in the hot tops were used to make ingots and molds. The boards would then turn to ash and the workers would use an air hose to get rid of the ash. This would cause the asbestos dust to be released into the air, putting those in the surrounding environment in danger.
Those who were exposed to asbestos at Erie Forge & Steel may not see the effects until decades later. When it comes to the development of mesothelioma, there is what is known as the latency period. It can take up to 60 years for symptoms of mesothelioma to develop.
If you worked at Erie Forge & Steel and were exposed to asbestos it is important to know the symptoms of mesothelioma. Common symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, cough, weight loss, and fatigue.
Know Your Rights
Asbestos exposure in Erie Steel mills was most likely very common and it is important to know your rights if you have developed an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is through no fault of your own and you deserve justice and compensation. There are a couple of different ways to pursue compensation.
It is our passion to help victims of asbestos-related diseases get the compensation they truly deserve and to hold companies accountable for negligently exposing their workers to asbestos. If you were an Erie steel mill worker and have developed an asbestos-related disease, we can work with you to help you get money for things such as lost wages, and medical expenses.
Different ways of pursuing compensation include lawsuits and bankruptcy claims. When there are viable defendants in the case (the company or companies that exposed you to asbestos are still in business), a lawsuit can be brought against these companies. If the companies are bankrupt, there is money available in asbestos trust funds that you would have the potential to receive a portion of.
If you or a loved one has developed an asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for financial compensation. Also conveniently located in Erie, Pennsylvania, The Halpern Law Firm can help you get the money you deserve. For a free consultation, call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form.
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