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Philadelphia Asbestos Lawyers Discuss Recent OSHA Asbestos Violations

A York, Pennsylvania environmental services company is facing hefty fines for failing to protect its employees from asbestos exposure.  Three workers from First Capital Insulation Inc. were exposed to the carcinogen while removing thermal pipe insulation from an unoccupied home on North Second Street in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.  According to the Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), this incident comprised a larger pattern of negligent behavior on the part of the company.  Prolonged asbestos exposure can cause devastating respiratory conditions such as mesothelioma.

First Capital Insulation offers asbestos, lead abatement, and insulation installation services, and should be familiar with asbestos safety protocols.  OSHA has specific regulations regarding the handling of asbestos, and workers are required to treat materials in buildings constructed before and in 1980 as hazardous, unless tests reveal that they do not contain asbestos.  Although the building in Harrisburg was constructed in 1928, no tests were conducted to rule out the presence of asbestos.

OSHA Investigation Revealed Numerous Unsafe Practices

OSHA found additional violations at the site both during and after the asbestos removal.  Workers should have wet the insulation material before removing it to prevent asbestos fibers from becoming airborne.  First Capital was also responsible to ensure that the workers’ respirators fit properly and that their clothes were adequately cleaned before leaving the worksite.  Employees can carry asbestos fibers home with them on their clothes and in their hair, which can cause second-hand exposure to others.  OSHA found a total of seven willful violations of asbestos safety protocols and fined the company $490,000.

Employers have a responsibility to protect their employees from hazards in the workplace, including exposure to dangerous materials such as asbestos.  OSHA requires employers to train employees on safety procedures and provide adequate protective equipment to minimize the risk of contracting diseases such as mesothelioma.  Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, and there are limited treatment options once the disease has been diagnosed.

Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at Shein Law Fight for Rights of Asbestos Exposure Victims

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, call Shein Law immediately.  Our knowledgeable, experienced Philadelphia asbestos lawyers will review your case to determine who is at fault for your asbestos exposure, then prepare an aggressive legal strategy to get you the compensation you deserve.  We have successfully represented clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey and are ready to take on your case.  Call us today at 1-877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) or contact us online to discuss your case with a qualified Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer.

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