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Westinghouse Electric and Asbestos: A Legacy of Controversy and Litigation
Few names in industrial history are as significant as Westinghouse Electric Company. Established in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1886 by George Westinghouse, the company quickly became a powerhouse in the field of electrical technology. From pioneering the use of alternating current, to its pivotal role in the development of nuclear energy, Westinghouse has left an indelible…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Ongoing Threat of Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace
Asbestos is a well-documented health hazard regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Despite a significant reduction in its use, asbestos remains dangerous and is in many residential and commercial environments, posing serious health risks. When asbestos-containing materials deteriorate or are disturbed, they can release…
Read MoreEPA Addresses Legacy Asbestos Risks
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken significant steps in addressing the risks associated with legacy uses of asbestos. In a newly released draft risk evaluation, the EPA identifies disturbing and handling asbestos in legacy applications as presenting an “unreasonable risk” to human health. This draft represents the second phase of the EPA’s risk assessment…
Read MoreThe EPA’s Landmark Ban on Chrysotile Asbestos
In a significant milestone for public health and chemical safety, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on March 18, 2024, the finalization of a rule to prohibit ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos in the United States. This decisive action, under the 2016 amendments to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), represents a culmination of…
Read MoreKaiser Aluminum Asbestos Exposure
Founded by Henry J. Kaiser in 1946, Kaiser Aluminum, positioned along the banks of the Ohio River in Ravenswood, WV, rose to prominence in the aluminum refining and manufacturing industry, spearheading innovations and advancements. However, its legacy includes asbestos-related controversies, a chapter in its history that spans several decades. Initially operating with two reduction facilities…
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