Environmental exposure to asbestos is a serious health risk and the situation in Libby, Montana shows how serious and long lasting such health risks can be. Even decades after the residents of this town were exposed to asbestos from the mining of asbestos-contaminated vermiculite, many remain at risk of mesothelioma.
EPA Indicates Asbestos Risk Continues
Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency announced that the risk of asbestos exposure still exists in many areas of Libby Montana, where huge quantities of vermiculite, contaminated with asbestos, were mined. In the last several decades, health officials have reported more than 400 people have been killed due to asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma. It is estimated 1,500 people who have lived and worked in the Libby area are currently being treated for mesothelioma and other diseases linked to exposure to asbestos.
Libby Montana was home to the W.R. Grace vermiculite mine from 1963-1990. Vermiculite which was commonly used as a form of insulation was laden with deadly asbestos. Not only were the people in Libby exposed to asbestos dust created through the mining operations, but this deadly product was shipped around the country for decades. Both environmental and occupational exposures to asbestos have played a key role in the recent increase in asbestos related deaths in Montana.
Asbestos Risks In Montana
The EPA is working hard to reduce these risks by forging a major clean up in the town of Libby. More than a decade after the EPA began its cleanup a draft toxicity study released in May 2011, has found the surrounding air in the town to be safe. To date, the federal cleanup has cost more than $370 million and federal contractors have removed hazardous soil and insulation from over 1,400 homes and businesses in the last decade. But there is still much more work to be done before this town can be considered safe again. Environmental and occupational exposure to asbestos still remains a major threat to the health of the residents and workers of Libby.
If you would like more information about various occupations at risk because of asbestos exposure, as well as known jobsites throughout the state of Montana where asbestos was used, visit http://www.galiherlawfirm.com/seeking-legal-help/legal-support-in-your-state/montana.aspx where we have information specifically related to Montana.
Bystander Exposure to Asbestos Also a Serious Risk
Environmental exposure to asbestos is still a risk to many people today, including those indirectly exposed such as family members who simply washed clothing covered with asbestos dust. A very unfortunate situation occurred to Faye T. who was exposed as a bystander to the asbestos dust on her husband’s work clothes. To better understand this risk, watch the short interview with her on her experience.
Are You At Risk?
You should be aware if you have been exposed to asbestos in your home, work or surroundings. Please visit our “Who is at risk?” section to find out more. To learn more about mesothelioma, we also have developed a very extensive “Mesothelioma Knowledge Center,” to provide information including Mesothelioma Treatment Options, Exposures in the US Navy, as well as your Legal Rights.
As Mesothelioma Lawyers, we have represented thousands of victims of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases and can help you. Don’t hesitate to call us to discuss how we can help.