Washington Asbestos Exposure

The state of Washington is one of the producers of asbestos, which is found in deposits located in the northeast portion of the state. Washington's economy depends greatly on the shipbuilding, paper, oil, aluminum, and timber industries. All of these industries rely on asbestos products to either construct their facilities, aid in the production process, or provide protective gear for their workers. The usefulness of asbestos, in addition to its affordability, can often make companies overlook the hazards and dangers these toxic fibers can have on your health.

Jobs with Asbestos Exposure in Washington

Insulation made of asbestos is believed to still exist in paper mills and factories. Power plants in Washington also heavily utilized asbestos materials to provide pipelines with protective insulation, and to protect workers from the heat. Asbestos is widely used to insulate power plant pipes due to its resistance to heat and flames. Power plants in Washington are constantly running to generate electrical power for the surrounding homes and businesses.

Shipyards in Washington were also affected by asbestos. Many vessels have been demolished and built in these shipyards. Asbestos-containing products were commonly used in the construction of these ships from the 1930s until the 1980s.

Where You May Have Been Exposed to Asbestos in Washington

Power Plants

• Fast Flux Facility
• Time Oil Co.
• Washington Public Power
• City of Tacoma
• Retrofit
• Hanford Nuclear
• Columbia Generating Co.

Shipyards

• Strategic Weapons Facility
• Lockheed Shipyard
• Tacoma Dry Docks
• Vancouver Shipyard
• Bremerton Naval Shipyard
• Lake Union Dry Dock
• Naval Station Everett
• Voyage Repair Station
• Puget Sound Naval Station

Metal Works

• Aluminum
• Columbia
• Intalco Aluminum

Asbestos-Related Deaths in Washington

There have been over 1,700 asbestos deaths in the state of Washington since the 1980s. Washington is ranked in the top 10 in the nation for asbestos deaths. Asbestos exposure causes mesothelioma, which is a rare form of lung cancer that affects the lining of the lungs.

Legal Resources for Washington

Washington statute allows you three years to file a personal injury claim based upon proven negligence on behalf of the asbestos manufacturers and/or your employers. Due to mesothelioma's latency period from the time of exposure to the time you are diagnosed, this particular statute may not apply.

The statute of limitations in the state of Washington for an asbestos case can be different from personal injury statutes. Even if your case has merit, missing the window of opportunity to file within the set statute of limitations can leave you unable to file your claim. It is advised that you contact us and let us help you determine if you have a potential case and to draft a time-line for your lawsuit of when your statutes are over.