Did you know that train stations were insulated with asbestos? Weitz & Luxenberg Can Help you secure compensation
Although the dangers of asbestos have been known for years thanks to the efforts of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) and other organizations both in the United States and overseas, it continued to be widely utilized. For years, asbestos was prized for its resistance to flame, durability, flexibility and the fact that it was inexpensive. In addition to cars, ships and homes, asbestos was used to insulate train stations, which endangered the lives of countless commuters and transportation personnel.
Weitz & Luxenberg has been handling asbestos related litigation for over two decades. We have the experience and resources necessary to offer you sound legal advice. If you have any inquiries about your legal options, please do not hesitate to let us know.
Grand Central Train Station Once Harbored Deadly Asbestos Fibers
One of New York’s premier stations, Grand Central Station, is “a magnificent structure that was originally built to service steam engines. Since the steam and smoke compromised visibility and eventually caused a number of accidents, it was torn down in stages and was remodeled in the late 1890s.” (Article Bin) Unfortunately, the demolition and constant renovation of Grand Central Station caused “millions of microscopic asbestos fibers to fly into the air” (Article Bin) many of which are still present to this day, in spite of efforts to remove them.
Not only were commuters endangered by the presence of asbestos fibers, but so were many of the employees. “Asbestos was used as an insulator for the pipes and boilers in the steam engines, and were often shaken free during train operations.” The men responsible for the construction and maintenance of these trains “have developed mesothelioma due to heavy exposure to asbestos.” In fact “they were often called “Grand Central Snowmen” because they would leave their work sites coated with asbestos dust that they jokingly referred to as snow.” (Article Bin)
“Over half a million people pass through Grand Central Station every day” (Article Base). Many of them are wholly unaware that they might be inhaling dangerous asbestos fibers which could lead to mesothelioma, asbestos lung cancer or asbestosis 20-50 years into the future.
Asbestos Used in International Train Stations
An article published by Asia News proves that asbestos is anything but a problem of the past. In 2005, “3,700 train and subway stations” (Asia News) in Japan were inspected for asbestos and the findings were nothing short of alarming:
- Of the 37,000 stations surveyed, 31 were covered with asbestos spray and left uncovered. The carcinogen was sprayed on ceilings and other areas” (Asia News) frequented by commuters and employees alike.
- According to the survey “about 40 % of the stations used construction materials containing asbestos.”
- JR Shikoku, one of the train and subway operators surveyed, used “asbestos containing materials in “84 % of its stations.” (Asia Views)
You Do Not Have To Fight Alone: Weitz & Luxenberg Can Be Your Legal Advocate
Weitz & Luxenberg understands how widespread the asbestos problem is and the havoc it had caused countless people across the country and around the world. It is unfortunate that even though the dangers of asbestos have been known in the United States since at least the Industrial Revolution, it continued to be used in multiple industries. Such carelessness should not be ignored.
Our firm has a team of skilled attorneys with a wealth of knowledge concerning asbestos-related ailments. To get started, simply fill out the form on this page. A representative from our firm will
get in touch with shortly you for your free legal consultation. There is no cost unless we secure a verdict or settlement for you.
Acknowledgements:
Asia Views:
Article Bin:
www.articlebin.info/cancer/lung-mesothelioma-asbestos/news_2011-01-02-02-00-03-938.html
If you worked on or in ships, asbestos exposure was highly likely