Worked With Plastic Molding? You Could Face Asbestos-Related Illnesses

Even as late as the 1980s, there were still asbestos fibers found in many kinds of plastic molding. Unfortunately, because those products contain asbestos, there is a new generation of victims of asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos plays a role in manufacturing because of its interesting and helpful properties. It can be used to fireproof and reinforce molded products, which makes them last longer and prevent the spread of fires where they’re used.

The truth is that many workers were exposed to asbestos-containing materials without knowing that they were. That means that people who worked at places like General Industries in Elyria or The Hoover Company in North Canton may now be developing mesothelioma. Some people may even develop it in the next decade or two, depending on their age when they worked there.

Asbestos was used as a filler in these products. Since it was an additive and provided reinforcement, it was often used in large quantities. The fine dust that it produced could easily be breathed in or carried home on workers’ clothing, exposing them and their families to the risk of asbestos-related illnesses.

Some products that contained asbestos in the past included:

• Electrical insulations
• Laminated boards
• Brake linings
• Joints

The plastics were heavily used in the automotive industry as well as others.

What Should You Fo if You Have Worked at One of the Plastics Manufacturers in Ohio?

If there is a potential that you were exposed to asbestos in the workplace, it’s a good idea to seek out a medical exam to look for signs of asbestos-related illnesses. If you have developed mesothelioma, you may still be able to file a workers’ compensation claim for all that you’ve been put through.