Prison Inmates Accuse Officials of Violating Asbestos Removal Standards
Inmates of the McNeil Island Corrections Facility in Washington State raised concerns when they had to remove asbestos-containing tiles at the prison without the use of protective equipment and safety precautions. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, a serious disease of the lung lining, and other kinds of cancer.
Although supervisors of the project had state certification in asbestos removal, they reportedly disregarded sanctioned removal practices, such as the use of water during the removal process to reduce asbestos dust, exposing the prisoners to asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers are inhaled they often attach to the mesothelium, the lining of the lung. Mesothelioma is difficult to treat and is usually fatal.
The State Department of Labor and Industries believes at least 18 people may have been exposed to the asbestos fiber. The State Department of Prisons is reviewing the incident.
Attorneys at Clapper, Patti, Schweizer & Mason remind anyone who works in heavy industry, including automotive building and repair, construction, railway work and shipbuilding, to become informed about possible exposure to asbestos products in their work.
