DATE: August 1, 2024
Edited and reviewed by Dave Halpern
Key takeaways:
- Asbestos was used in the manufacturing of paper
- Talc is present in paper mills, which sometimes contains asbestos
- When asbestos is inhaled, it can cause mesothelioma
- Building materials also contained asbestos, exposing maintenance workers as well
Paper mill workers are exposed to asbestos fibers through the process of manufacturing paper. Talc is used in the process to bleach paper, which is a known carcinogen that sometimes contains asbestos. When a paper mill worker inhales asbestos, fibers embed themselves into organ lining and can eventually develop into mesothelioma. Equipment and infrastructure in paper mills also could contain asbestos. The Pacific Northwest is known for being a paper mill hub.
Asbestos could travel home with employees and be inhaled by other household members. A study conducted on paper mill workers found that a large portion of those who worked in paper mills probably inhaled asbestos fibers. The inhalation most likely occurred while performing machine maintenance or interacting with affected insulation.
The paper industry is huge, employing thousands of people. All of these employees and those who live with them are at potential risk of inhaling asbestos and developing mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you deserve compensation. The experienced team at the Halpern Law Firm can help you file a claim. For more information, call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our form.
