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The World Health Organization estimates that 107,000 workers will perish annually across the globe from asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. In the United States alone, 30 American workers die each day as a result of asbestos exposure. Yet despite these disturbing statistics, Brazil continues to be permitted to import 1,000 tons of chrysotile asbestos into the United States
Moreover, the importation of the known carcinogen is supported and funded by several U.S. investors that may be unaware of the dangers of asbestos exposure. Some of these financial shareholders include Mellon Capital Management Corporation, The Vanguard Group, Inc., and State Street Global Advisors. Additionally, Brazil is utilizing the seaports in the states of California, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Texas to transport the Brazilian asbestos into the United States.
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) strongly supports prohibiting the importation of asbestos into the United States. Established to safeguard the rights of asbestos victims and their families, the ADAO focuses on educating the public about the dangers of asbestos and seeks to increase awareness about asbestos-related diseases including lung cancer and mesothelioma. The ADAO also advocates for safer work environments for the American people and believes that there are other materials the American workforce can be used as effectively as asbestos for manufacturing, without the safety hazards. In an effort to affect change, the ADAO has appealed to Congress for their support in opposing the United States importation of Brazilian asbestos.
In the workplace, despite safety regulations and precautions, an inexperienced worker can be exposed to asbestos inadvertently. Workers must to be properly trained to identify asbestos products and how to handle them. Managers need to enforce procedures regarding correct asbestos handling. Of concern is the fact that mesothelioma, a cancer linked exclusively to asbestos exposure, can remain dormant for 20 or more years after exposure; therefore, its deadly effects are not always evident to present-day workers and business owners who have yet to experience them. This fact alone emphasizes the need for rigorous training and enforcement policies.
In addition, environmental asbestos exposure can transpire during a natural disaster and its aftermath. Some current examples in the United States include Hurricane Sandy and the Joplin, Missouri tornado. During the subsequent clean-up and restorations efforts, millions of people may have been exposed to asbestos. Unfortunately, many residents are unaware of the dangers of the airborne asbestos fibers as they seek to rebuild. As a result, many of these communities may suffer the effects of the toxic carcinogen for decades to come.
If you or someone you love may have been exposed to asbestos at work or within your community and is now suffering from lung cancer, mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, contact the Philadelphia asbestos lawyers at the law firm of Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. With offices in Center City Philadelphia, we are conveniently located to represent clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our asbestos attorneys are compassionate and caring professionals who understand the sensitive nature of asbestos-related diseases, as well as the complexities of asbestos cases. We will assist you in recovering the compensation you and your family deserve. Call us at 800-369-0899 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today.