Executives Plead No Contest in Student Asbestos Exposure Lawsuit

In 2005, Firm Build recruited a number of students to remove asbestos insulation from the Castle Commerce Center in Merced, California. The lease clearly stated that the building was contaminated with asbestos, lead-based paint and black mold. Despite being aware of the asbestos contamination, the defendants failed to train the students in proper removal technique. They also failed to provide the students with protective equipment to prevent their asbestos exposure.

Students Not Provided with Safety Equipment to Limit Asbestos Exposure

According to the asbestos exposure lawsuit, the students allegedly removed asbestos-containing insulation and floor tiles from the building. They also allegedly used hammers to demolish the tiles, releasing the fibers into the air. The students reported that the dust they created was so thick that they had to leave the building for fresh air. They were provided with hard hats, goggles and cotton masks. This equipment is not sufficient to protect them from the asbestos fibers, which can cling to skin and clothing.

After receiving complaints from people who witnessed the students working on the asbestos-contaminated property, the federal district attorney’s office began a criminal investigation.
In March, the three men were convicted on federal charges. The sentencing for these federal charges is scheduled for June 3. They will likely face between 24 and 27 months in prison. They also pleaded no contest to illegally diverting construction funds and other financial crimes. They are scheduled to be sentenced for these crimes by Merced County Superior Court Judge John Kirihara in July. They could face more than three and a half years in prison for these charges.

The Dangers of Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials and automotive parts because of its resistance to heat. Although it is a useful building material, asbestos exposure has been tied to severe, potentially life-threatening illnesses. For this reason, federal, state and local governments have created strict laws regarding asbestos removal and disposal. These laws are intended to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure. Asbestos exposure puts people at risk for developing serious health conditions, including:

• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Asbestosis
• Pleural plaques

These asbestos health conditions generally do not set in immediately. In some cases, the symptoms manifest decades after the asbestos exposure.

If You Have Suffered Asbestos-Related Health Problems, Take Legal Action

If you or someone you love has suffered from asbestos-related health problems, visit the Mesothelioma Asbestos Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Investigation to learn about your legal rights. When you submit information about your injuries, an asbestos mesothelioma lawyer will conduct a free case evaluation to determine whether you qualify to file an asbestos lawsuit. You could receive compensation for your medical expenses and other losses you experienced as a result of asbestos exposure.