Toxic Exposure in Western Pennsylvania
Western Pennsylvania is known for its industrial legacy, particularly in the steel and coal mining industries. However, this has also left behind a legacy of toxic exposure, with many workers being exposed to hazardous substances like asbestos, coal dust, and other toxic chemicals. Throughout Western Pennsylvania’s history, there have been countless companies that have been held liable for toxic exposure.
PPG Industries
PPG Industries is a multinational corporation that produces paints, coatings, and specialty materials. The company was founded in Pittsburgh in 1883 and has since expanded to become one of the largest paint manufacturers in the world. However, the company has also been held liable for toxic exposure.
In 2012, a group of former PPG Industries employees filed a lawsuit claiming that they had been exposed to toxic chemicals while working at the company’s glass manufacturing plant in Ford City, Pennsylvania. The lawsuit alleged that PPG Industries had not provided workers with adequate protective gear or training, and that the company had failed to thoroughly clean up hazardous materials at the facility.
The lawsuit was settled in 2016 for $7.5 million, with PPG Industries agreeing to pay the settlement and to implement new safety measures at its Ford City plant. This settlement demonstrates how even large corporations like PPG Industries can be held liable for toxic exposure.
Armstrong World Industries
Armstrong World Industries is a global leader in the production of ceilings, floors, and cabinets. The company was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1860 and has since expanded to become one of the largest building product manufacturers in the world. However, the company has also been held liable for toxic exposure.
In 2014, a group of former Armstrong World Industries employees filed a lawsuit claiming that they had been exposed to asbestos while working at the company’s Lancaster plant. The lawsuit alleged that Armstrong World Industries had known about the dangers of asbestos but had failed to provide workers with adequate protective gear or training.
The lawsuit was settled in 2016 for $11 million, with Armstrong World Industries agreeing to pay the settlement and to implement new safety measures at its Lancaster plant. This settlement demonstrates how even companies with a long history of success like Armstrong World Industries can be held liable for toxic exposure.
Consol Energy
Consol Energy is a coal mining company that operates in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio. The company was founded in 1864 and has since expanded to become one of the largest coal mining companies in the United States. However, the company has also been held liable for toxic exposure.
In 2012, a group of residents near Consol Energy’s Bailey Mine filed a lawsuit claiming that the company had polluted their water supply with toxic chemicals like arsenic and cadmium. The lawsuit alleged that Consol Energy had not properly disposed of the waste produced by its mining operations, leading to contamination of the local water supply.
The lawsuit was settled in 2018 for $3 million, with Consol Energy agreeing to pay the settlement and to implement new safety measures at its mining operations. This settlement demonstrates how even companies in the mining industry can be held liable for toxic exposure and pollution.
Toxic exposure is a genuine issue in Western Pennsylvania, and many workers and residents have been exposed to hazardous substances like asbestos, coal dust, and toxic chemicals. However, as demonstrated by the lawsuits against PPG Industries, Armstrong World Industries, and Consol Energy, these companies can be held liable for their actions paying settlements to those affected by toxic exposure. It is important for companies to prioritize the safety of their workers and the environment in order to prevent further instances of toxic exposure and pollution. Contact Goldberg, Persky, and White P.C. today to review your case.
Sources:
-
“PPG Agrees to $7.5 Million Settlement in Asbestos Exposure Case” NBC News (April 21, 2016) [Link]
-
Matt Miller, “Armstrong worker became fatally ill from toxic exposure, court agrees” Penn Live (2018) [Link]
-
Joe Mandak, “Feds, Pennsylvania Settle Console Energy Water Pollution Suit” AP News (August 4, 2016) [Link]
