Mesothelioma Lawsuit Against Rochester Gas and Electric

The Dangers of Exposure to Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries for its heat resistance and durability. However, it was discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a rare and aggressive form of cancer known as mesothelioma. Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) is one of the companies that have faced legal action over their use of asbestos-containing materials.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. It is caused by the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers, which become lodged in the body and cause inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of cancerous tumors.

What is Rochester Gas and Electric?

Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) is a utility company that provides electricity and natural gas to customers in the Rochester, New York area. The company has been in operation for over 150 years and has faced legal action over their use of asbestos-containing materials in their facilities and equipment.

The Mesothelioma Lawsuit Against Rochester Gas and Electric

In 2012, the family of a former RG&E employee who had died from mesothelioma filed a lawsuit against the company. The lawsuit alleged that the employee had been exposed to asbestos fibers while working at an RG&E facility in the 1960s and 1970s, and that the company had failed to warn him of the dangers of asbestos or provide him with protective equipment.

The lawsuit was settled out of court for an undisclosed amount, but it was not the only legal action taken against RG&E. In 2018, the company was fined $150,000 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for violating regulations related to asbestos management.

How Does Asbestos Exposure Occur?

Asbestos fibers can be released into the air during activities that disturb asbestos-containing materials, such as demolition or renovation work. Once in the air, the fibers can be inhaled by anyone in the vicinity, including workers and bystanders. Additionally, people can be exposed to asbestos through contaminated clothing or equipment that has come into contact with the fibers.

The Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to develop after exposure to asbestos. They can include:

Chest pain	Shortness of breath	Fatigue
Persistent cough	Weight loss	Lumps under the skin

Who is at Risk of Mesothelioma?

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma, but some groups are at higher risk than others. These include:

Construction workers	Shipyard workers	Military veterans
Factory workers	Electricians	Plumbers

What Should You Do if You Think You Have Been Exposed to Asbestos?

If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform tests to determine if you have any signs of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. Additionally, you should notify your employer or any other parties who may have been responsible for the asbestos exposure.

How Can You Protect Yourself from Asbestos Exposure?

If you work in an industry where asbestos exposure is a risk, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Wear protective clothing, including a respirator and disposable coveralls
• Avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials
• Follow proper safety protocols for handling and disposing of asbestos-containing materials

What Can You Do if You Have Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible for compensation through a mesothelioma lawsuit. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of filing a claim against the responsible parties.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that can be caused by exposure to asbestos, a material that was widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries for many years. Rochester Gas and Electric is one of the companies that have faced legal action over their use of asbestos-containing materials, and it is important to hold companies accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has been affected by mesothelioma, it is important to seek legal advice and explore your options for compensation.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or attorney if you have any questions or concerns about your health or legal rights.