United Technologies faces a lawsuit from a former employee alleging his aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure led to mesothelioma.

Plaintiff Joseph M. recently filed a suit against United Technologies Co. alleging that his aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure led to mesothelioma.

Joseph says he worked as a jet engine mechanic at Bradley Field International in Connecticut from 1960 to 1966. He alleges that during his employment, he was exposed to products containing asbestos manufactured by United Technologies.

The risks of asbestos exposure have been addressed by studies and reports since the 1920s. Joseph argues that the products were designed with asbestos without considering the risks aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure would pose to employees.

“[United Technologies] was aware or should have been aware of medical and scientific data, studies and reports since approximately 1929, which information clearly indicated that asbestos and asbestos containing products were hazardous to the health and safety of [Joseph] and other human beings,” the lawsuit states.

Additionally, Joseph also argues that United Technologies should have warned of the “synergist relationship between cigarette smoking, asbestos exposure and cancer.” A large portion of lung cancer diagnoses can be attributed to cigarette smoking, and individuals who smoke and are exposed to asbestos fibers are double at risk for developing cancer.

The aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure lawsuit argues that United Technologies should have included warnings and safety equipment recommendations so that employees like Joseph would know the safest way to interact with asbestos products. Since no notice was given, Joseph allegedly was unable to take the proper safety precautions and developed health issues as a result of his aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure.

Joseph’s complaint alleges that, in addition to manufacturing dangerous products and failing to warn, United Technologies’ failures were a result of ignorance. The lawsuit argues that the company intentionally misrepresented their products as safe and concealed information that stated otherwise.

“The injuries and damages were caused by the Defendant in that its actions constituted wanton, willful and malicious misconduct and demonstrated a reckless disregard for the consequences the Defendant knew or should have known would result,” the aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure lawsuit states.

Joseph has since suffered from asbestos-related lung problems. He argues that the condition has caused him pain, mental anguish, and suffering. He allegedly has experienced a decreased earning capacity and large medical expenses, causing serious financial harm. Joseph believes that, had he not experienced aircraft mechanic asbestos exposure, he would not live his life in fear and anguish over the effect of his illness and its worsening.

Finally, Joseph argues that United Technologies should have informed him that he may have been exposed to asbestos products while working with their products. “[United Technologies], after it learned or should have learned of the dangers of asbestos exposure, failed or refused to notify [Joseph] of the dangers of his exposure and of the need for continuing medical surveillance and conspired to keep such knowledge from the public, and [Joseph],” the lawsuit claims.

Joseph accused United Technologies of products liability under Connecticut consumer laws. The lawsuit seeks damages greater than $15,000.

The Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuit is Case No. 3:18-cv-00497-MPS in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut.