History of Asbestos in Ohio
For much of the 20th century, asbestos was a widely accepted and used material for insulation, fire proofing, and numerous other applications. The substance, which occurs naturally underground, often contaminates other raw materials being mined such as iron and vermiculite.
In Ohio, a variety of industries used asbestos in their facilities or products. Others were heavily exposed to the mineral when contaminated shipments of vermiculite were shipped into the state. Such is the case for the manufacturing of insulation in Ohio.
At the time, vermiculite was a key ingredient in the making of insulation, and the W.R. Grace Vermiculite mine, located in Libby, Montana, was a primary supplier of the vermiculite to Ohio insulation manufacturers.
O.M. Scott & Sons received an estimated 400,000 tons from W.R. Grace's Libby mine. Tragically, the Libby vermiculite was heavily contaminated with asbestos and that contamination was spread along every bit of the way that vermiculite traveled from Montana to Ohio; to O.M. Scott & Sons; through their insulation manufacturing process to by-products of the process, such as crushed rock, that were sold to the general public; and in the insulation they produced that was sold for construction around the state and across the country.
As a result, many, many people were directly exposed to asbestos that could lead to asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Ohio workers and even the general public were also exposed to asbestos from a variety of industries in the state typically implicated with asbestos environments such as oil refineries, power plants, chemical manufacturing, construction and military installations.
Asbestos Exposure at Jobsites
Thousands of people living or working in Ohio in the 20th century could potentially have been exposed to asbestos. Regulatory organizations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control have emphatically stated that no level of asbestos exposure is considered safe.
Anyone exposed to any amount asbestos is at risk for developing an asbestos disease. However, not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop an asbestos related disease. Why diseases develop in some exposed to asbestos and not in others is not known. There is some evidence to suggest that those that worked in an asbestos environment over a period of time may be more likely to develop mesothelioma, but it must be stressed that it is possible for any exposure to cause the disease.
If you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, you should consult your physician as soon as possible to discuss your exposure. People that match these criteria should also certainly talk with their doctor:
- Worked at a jobsite where asbestos was known to be used
- Worked at a jobsite where asbestos was likely used as insulation, sound proofing or flame retardant in the building and was not contained or was disturbed during renovation or damage.
- Lived with someone that worked directly with asbestos, or was exposed to asbestos and could have carried microscopic particles home on clothing, shoes or hair.
- Worked in an industry where asbestos was commonly used, even if you weren't aware at the time that you were working with or around asbestos. These industries include, but are not limited to: oil, power, gas, electricity, manufacturing, automotive, shipping and marine transport, aeronautics, U.S. Military, construction, mining, firefighting, steel and iron, hairdressers, educators, racing and others.
- Lived in a home that was known to contain asbestos, especially if that asbestos was not contained or was disturbed due to damage or renovation.
- Suspect that you were exposed to asbestos in some other way or feel that you may be at risk for asbestos disease.
- Are unsure whether or not you were exposed to asbestos, and are concerned.
Asbestos-related Deaths in Ohio
Asbestos related deaths in Ohio are believed to be quite high. Before the Centers for Disease Control mandated mesothelioma reporting, during the years 1979-2001 mesothelioma deaths were recorded at 1046. Once reporting was required, mesothelioma deaths roughly doubled nationally.
Where to Find Help
A mesothelioma diagnosis can be shocking and devastating. Because the disease typically progresses very rapidly, much has to be decided in a short period of time. Among these decisions are choosing a doctor, treatment center, treatment, Ohio mesothelioma attorney, putting finances in order, and last wishes.
As mesothelioma attorneys working in Ohio, we want you to know these are among your options:
Mesothelioma Treatment Centers in Ohio
Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
Case Western Reserve University
11100 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, Ohio 44106-5065
216-844-8562
Cleveland Clinic Foundation
Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
9500 Euclid Avenue, F24
Cleveland, Ohio 44195
216-444-6503
Follow this link to learn more about their mesothelioma services, make an appointment, and get an overview of physicians that treat mesothelioma at the facility: Cleveland Clinic Mesothelioma
The Ohio State University
OSU James Cancer Hospital
300 W. 10th Ave.,
Columbus, Ohio 43210
614-293-7521
University Hospital
UC Barrett Cancer Center
234 Goodman Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45219
513-584-3200
The overwhelming and primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, an Ohio mesothelioma attorney can help you learn where you were exposed, who is responsible for your exposure, and help you seek financial compensation to help with medical bills and other financial stresses created by your exposure.
Simon, Eddins & Greenstone, LLP, is a firm of mesothelioma attorneys helping asbestos victims in Ohio. We bring nationwide asbestos litigation experience and compassionate dedication to every case. Contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and options. 888-632-7574.