PJC: Higher Mesothelioma Risk for Asbestos Removal Workers
The Public Justice Center (PJC) is alleging that an asbestos removal company put its workers at risk of potentially developing deadly asbestos illnesses such as mesothelioma by not properly supplying them with the safety devices.
According to the Baltimore Sun, the PJC claims that WMS Solutions LLC required that its employees purchase their own safety goggles, gloves, and respirators to protect them against asbestos exposure they would encounter on the job. Furthermore, the company also made employees pay for the proper medical exams they were required to undergo before they could begin working.
If workers didn't make the payments upfront, the costs were deducted from their paychecks.
Federal laws instituted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration require employers to provide proper protection to employees who must work with dangerous materials such as asbestos, the inhalation of which can lead to the development of mesothelioma later in life.
The PJC complaint also claims that WMS employees working at two specific work sites had to wash and reuse their respirator filters while other workers on the site were given fresh filters up to two times every week.
The complaint is asking for WMS to reimburse the workers for any money that has been spent on supplies, tests, and training for their job.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos at work and now suffers from mesothelioma, contact Sokolove Law today to learn more about pursuing a mesothelioma claim.