Mechanic asbestos exposure is a serious concern for the public, as numerous cases of mesothelioma and lung cancer related to asbestos exposure are continuously reported.

One of the most recent cases of mechanic asbestos exposure comes from a man filing legal action against CertainTeed Corporation and other companies, alleging they failed to warn him against this possibility.

The former mechanic is also naming A.O. Smith Corporation and Ajax Magnethermic Corporation, stating the companies either knew or should have known about the potential health risks associated with mechanic asbestos exposure.

Plaintiff Jerry S. filed this mesothelioma lawsuit on Oct. 23, 2017, alleging the companies failed to provide safety equipment or work related safety measures to protect against mechanic asbestos exposure.

According to the mesothelioma lawsuit, Jerry was employed from 1972 to 1992 and allegedly experienced mechanic asbestos exposure from the products manufactured, sold, or installed by the defendant companies.

Allegedly due to the regular mechanic asbestos exposure, Jerry was diagnosed with mesothelioma on Aug. 23, 2017 and has since had to contend with the condition.

Overview of Mechanic Asbestos Exposure

While Jerry’s case of mechanic asbestos exposure is unfortunate, cases like these have become a fairly regular occurrence in the United States. Former mechanics and other employees who worked in the industrial field have been reportedly diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases.

Mesothelioma is a very rare form of lung cancer, in which asbestos fibers entrapped in the mucus lining of the lungs fester into cancer cells. This cancer is specifically linked to asbestos exposure and can take up to 50 years to show any symptoms, often resulting in late diagnosis and short life expectancy.

Numerous mesothelioma diagnoses have been popping up across the country because of regular mechanic asbestos exposure before the 1980s. Asbestos was popularly used for insulation and other manufacturing purposes for its fire and chemical resistant qualities, which means mechanic asbestos exposure was relatively common among industry workers.

Asbestos fibers can either be inhaled or swallowed, at which point they can become entrapped in the lungs or stomach respectively. Currently, the Environmental Protection Agency and other health officials have confirmed asbestos as a carcinogen and have strict policies in place when it comes to asbestos removal.

While asbestos is considered harmless if left dormant, it can be catastrophic once the site is disturbed. Companies that operated or sold asbestos products are required to disclose asbestos exposure related risks to their customers and employees, to prevent unnecessary exposure.

At all times relevant, Jerry states the companies did not disclose the potential health complications associated with mechanic asbestos exposure or offer him any kind of protective equipment. Jerry claims the companies had safer substitutes to asbestos but still used the dangerous material.

Jerry is seeking over $25,000 in litigation costs and other damages, alleging multiple counts of negligence and failure to warn.

This Mesothelioma Lawsuit is Case No. 1722-CC11571, in the St. Louis 22nd Judicial Circuit Court.