What Are the Causes of Leaking Underground Storage Tanks?
Underground storage tanks (UST) store hazardous substances and petroleum for residential and commercial purposes but are vulnerable to leaks. They are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Still, the risk of contaminated groundwater is very real.
The EPA does not regulate every UST in the country, but the laws apply to large ones at gas stations and other locations. They do not apply to ones with 110 gallons or less, farm and residential ones of 1,100 gallons or less that hold motor fuel, USTs that store heating oil used right on the premises where it is located, and under other circumstances.
The signs of a residential UST leak include gas vapors in the basement, a noticeable petroleum smell in the air and water, and stains on the soil by the tank. If these red flags are noticed, contact your local government and ask for help locating the right agency for remediation.
Unsurprisingly, poor installation or maintenance is one of the leading causes of these leaks. A UST must be appropriately installed and needs routine care. Ground vibrations, floods, construction activities, and other physical impacts can also damage them.
Underground storage tanks and their pipes can also corrode when made of steel; newer ones are double-walled fiberglass and have built-in leak detectors. An older UST might also be more prone to dispenser leaks and leaks that originate in their submersible transfer pumps.
Leaks can also develop when a UST is filled with too much liquid. Although modern fill ports help eliminate this problem, older ones might have overflows that spill into the ground after their hoses are disconnected. The seals on a UST can also dry out, crack, and leak – fiberglass project lines and tanks can also leak when the fittings are not installed correctly.
How Dangerous Is an Underground Storage Leak?
A leaking UST can leach hazardous substances into the soil and cause minor health issues like headaches and more serious ones like liver or kidney damage. If the leakage gets into the groundwater and your home has a private well, your drinking water could be affected. Exposure to those substances can be hazardous, and the vapors can get into your home’s sewer lines, pipes, and basements.
The best ways to prevent UST leaks are to conduct regular inspections, follow a routine maintenance schedule, and respond quickly if you think there is a leak. It could be from a tank buried in your yard, a neighbor’s yard, or a nearby commercial site. In some instances, a negligent party might be held responsible for a leak.
Our Wilmington Environment Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Clients Impacted by Leaking USTs
A leaking UST can cause severe damage to people’s health and the environment. To learn more, contact our experienced Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Complete our online form today or call 302-656-5445 to schedule a consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Is Pesticide Exposure Higher in the Summer Months?
Many homeowners, landscapers, farmers, and gardeners rely on pesticides to control the impact of animals, insects, and other outdoor pests on plants, flowers, and trees. Pesticide use corresponds with warm weather, given that more people spend time outside maintaining and cultivating lawns, fields, and similar properties. Though pesticides work, the spike in their use during spring, summer, and early fall can lead to unwanted levels of potentially dangerous exposure.
You cannot control how often others use pesticides during the summer. Nevertheless, you can still take steps to limit your exposure to pesticides to lower your risk of experiencing mild or severe side effects.
First, use personal protective equipment (PPE) as outlined on the bottle of any pesticide you plan to use. Typically, PPE includes gloves and a mask. If you get pesticide on your clothing, take it off as soon as you can and launder it immediately to avoid cross-contamination. If you splash pesticide on your skin, wash it off right away.
Secondly, go indoors or to a safer place if you are in a location where someone is using pesticides. Your goal should be to distance yourself from the pesticide being sprayed or deposited. Be especially careful if you are with children, as they are less able to fight off the effects of pesticide exposure and poisoning.
Third, be cautious about taking a side or summer job that requires you to be in the presence of pesticides daily. Landscapers, groundskeepers, pool employees, park rangers, and farmhands may be expected to use pesticides or be around them. Even occasional use, exposure, or inhalation of a toxic product can result in a severe medical emergency.
Finally, get treatment if you believe you were sickened by a pesticide.
Common Pesticide Exposure Side Effects
Even at lower exposure levels, pesticides can lead to unwanted side effects. These side effects can range from minor to life-threatening. Below are just a few of the reported conditions connected to pesticide exposure:
- Rashes, hives, and other skin irritation
- Watery, itchy eyes or throat
- Nausea, vomiting, and other gastric distress
- Headaches and dizziness
- Shortness of breath and asthma
- Coordination and balance problems
- Seizures and other central nervous system issues
- Development of cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
Our Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Those Harmed by Pesticide Negligence
Have you been diagnosed with a severe medical problem related to a dangerous pesticide? Contact our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. today. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Does Urbanization Harm Local Environments?
Environmental law is an important aspect of law, especially with the expansion of the country’s cities impacting more than just the landscape. Urbanization has numerous far-reaching effects on the environment, both directly and indirectly. People must be aware of the potential for environmental degradation because it could lead to new regulations and legal actions.
The Pattern of Urbanization Is Accelerating
These days, people are moving to cities in increasing numbers. In the next three decades, the number of Americans living in urban areas is expected to increase to nearly 90 percent. These population patterns result in growth in the city core and the suburbs. The relationship between human beings and the city is a complex one. Cities present numerous conveniences and efficiencies in daily life. However, ever-increasing density in urban areas could affect the environment in ways that could make people sicker and harm their natural habitat.
Urbanization Means More Resources Are Required
One of the main issues with urbanization is the difference in consumption patterns. Urban settings result in higher levels of fuel and electricity consumption. The most significant impact is the increased emissions that accompany transportation and manufacturing. The expansion of the city’s footprint means that residents could be commuting from the exurbs, using more gasoline. In addition, the increased need for lighting means more electricity consumption.
Hydrocarbons are far from the only resource that is in greater demand. A critical concern is a growing water shortage. Cities require more water as more people move to them. However, the effects of climate change have meant less water to go around, and water supplies have been degraded.
Urbanization Raises Temperature
Urbanization has also been shown to change the actual temperature, both in the city and the surrounding areas. Natural landscapes do not absorb the Earth’s heat as much as concrete. Because cities have so much concrete, they tend to be warmer than distant suburbs and exurbs. This could result in a circular relationship, in which the higher temperatures mean that even more electricity is required in warmer months when buildings and homes will use more air conditioning.
Water Quality Can Suffer From Urbanization
Urbanization can also degrade the quality of local water. In rural environments, there is more area where storm water can infiltrate the ground. The expansion of cities means that water rushes into waterways more quickly. There are two significant effects of this:
- Cities are more likely to encounter catastrophic flooding because there are fewer places that water can go in the event of a severe storm.
- More runoff from urban areas is swept into waterways, including fuels, chemicals, and bacteria.
Urbanization Is Not Always Harmful
Urbanization is not always negative. The concentration of large amounts of people in one space can increase the number of people who rely on public transit. In addition, urbanization can also introduce efficiencies, such as increased productivity. With sensible practices, developers can build projects in carbon-neutral ways that do not harm the environment.
Many cities have devised plans for smart growth that allow for urbanization while protecting the environment. However, these plans could introduce increased business costs and difficulties with compliance. Businesses will need to invest more money in policies and procedures and comply with laws and regulations. They can expect more government regulation as cities and states take more decisive action to protect the environment.
Contact Our Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Today
Our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. protect those harmed by exposure to toxins or chemicals. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Is the Difference Between Mold Assessment and Mold Remediation?
If you suspect mold growing in or around your home or business, your first reaction is to remove it immediately. However, that is a difficult task if you attempt to do it alone. Mold remediation is not an easy problem, you should first discuss the problem with professionals and have the issue inspected, assessed, and then removed.
This is when you will hear the terms “mold assessment” and “mold remediation,” which are two parts of the removal process:
- Mold assessment: A detailed inspection of indoor air and surfaces that determines if removal is necessary. After removal, a post-assessment can be performed to determine if the area is completely mold-free.
- Mold remediation: Remediation is a specialized process that removes, sanitizes, cleans, or destroys infected areas, as well as the removal of mold-contaminated objects.
It is easy for a mold remediation company to perform the assessment and remove the mold without having the situation checked by a third party. In this case, it is recommended to not use the same company to perform the two separate processes, as doing so will create a conflict of interest.
Although the two processes are within the same industry, for the assurance of the customer, they should be performed by two separate companies. When hiring a mold remediation specialist, make sure they recommend a third-party assessment company to test the area.
Mold Exposure Problems
Mold exposure can cause different health problems for yourself and whomever breathes the mold spores in. From physical issues, like breathing problems or muscle pain, to other problems, like digestive disorders or depression, mold can be a serious problem if left untreated:
- Breathing issues: Mold exposure can cause different respiratory issues and can make existing breathing conditions worse. Mold exposure can cause asthma problems, wheezing, coughing, sore throats, congestion, and irritation of the nasal passages. For those who have a compromised immune system, mold exposure can cause pneumonitis, sinus congestion, allergic rhinitis, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.
- Skin issues: Your skin is one of the first organs that will indicate a body is suffering from an illness. Skin becomes dry, flaky, or itchy when exposed to mold or when mold illness begins, which could then develop into rashes or hives.
- Pins and needles: It is common to experience numbness, twitching, or “pins and needles” sensations in the extremities when exposed to mold.
- Digestive disorders: There are many digestive problems caused by mold exposure, such as unwanted weight loss, lack of appetite, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mold spores can also cause systemic inflammation in the stomach, causing weight gain and bloating.
- Depression: Psychiatric symptoms are related to mold exposure as well, such as depression, insomnia, anxiety, memory issues, and concentration issues.
- Headaches and dry eyes: Mold exposure can cause symptoms similar to hay fever. Issues like red, itchy eyes, and blurry vision are common. Sinus issues can happen as well, including headaches or migraines.
- Muscle pain: Many who have experienced mold exposure experience muscle pain in different muscle groups. Some report a dull achiness, while others may report sharp, intense muscle pain.
Mold can grow in dark or damp areas. It can appear green, black, or brown, and can have a musty or earthy smell. You can prevent mold growth by repairing water leaks or using fans to circulate the air. You should also try to decrease the humidity in your home. However, mold should be assessed and removed by a professional.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Clients Suffering From Mold Illnesses Caused by Negligence
Businesses, schools, and our spaces can have mold growing in unseen areas, making you and your family sick. Our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. represent clients who have been impacted by mold exposure. Call us at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Is Benzene Exposure?
Benzene is a type of volatile organic compound (VOC) that can cause serious health complications. Commonly found in products like gasoline, rubber, plastics, and paints, benzene exposure can occur through inhalation or absorption through the skin.
Benzene is a colorless liquid made up of hydrocarbons. It has a sweet smell and is flammable. In its purest form, benzene can be found in combustion fumes from vehicles or burning wood. However, when mixed with other chemicals such as chlorine or sulfur dioxide, it becomes even more dangerous.
Exposure to benzene can lead to a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and confusion. Long-term exposure can lead to anemia, bone marrow damage, liver damage, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
Inhaling high concentrations can result in unconsciousness or death due to respiratory depression. Immediate medical attention should be sought if you experience any symptoms related to benzene exposure.
Treatment for Benzene Exposure
Treatment for exposure depends on the severity of the symptoms. If exposed to high levels of benzene through inhalation or ingestion, you will need urgent medical attention as soon as possible.
To reduce the risk of long-term health effects associated with low-level exposure over time, you should avoid further contact with benzene by wearing protective clothing and using adequate ventilation. If long-term exposure has already occurred, then your doctor may recommend blood transfusions or medication, depending on individual circumstances.
Where Is Benzene Commonly Found?
Benzene can be found in many common household items, such as glues, paints, and detergents, but also in fuels, like gasoline. It is also present in cigarette smoke, so those who regularly smoke cigarettes are at greater risk for developing health issues related to benzene exposure. Additionally, some workplaces may have higher levels of benzene due to regular fueling activities, so workers should take extra caution when entering these environments by wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You if You Have an Illness From Benzene Exposure
Exposure to benzene can be life-threatening in certain cases. To discuss your legal options if you have been harmed by benzene, speak with one of our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
What Is Beryllium Exposure?
Beryllium is a metal that is stronger than steel, lighter than aluminum, and an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, properties that make it an ideal material. Beryllium is essential in many industries, most notably utilized by the U.S. Department of Defense, and it is classified as a critical material used in weaponry, shipbuilding, and aircrafts.
Beryllium is used as a pure metal, an oxide, or an alloy combined with copper, aluminum, magnesium, or nickel. In a solid metal state, beryllium is safe, however, when it is being altered, the dust and fumes are unsafe and can lead to lung disease.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), about 62,000 workers are potentially exposed to beryllium in approximately 7,300 establishments in the United States. Common industries and occupations with risk of beryllium exposure include:
- Aerospace.
- Automotive manufacturing and trades.
- Computer manufacturing.
- Construction.
- Dental prosthesis and supplies manufacturing.
- Dental technicians.
- Electronics.
- Furnace tenders.
- Industrial ceramics.
- Laboratory professions.
- Machinists.
- Metal fabricating.
- Metal Recycling.
- Mining of beryl ore.
- Nuclear weapons manufacturing.
- Precision machine shops.
- Shipyards and shipbuilding.
- Smelting and foundry.
- Tool and die manufacturing.
- Welding.
Though beryllium exposure is higher for workers, family members are also often exposed through workers’ clothing and other items that may also be contaminated. Those who work in beryllium manufacturing, alloy production, and recycling industries receive the highest amount of exposure.
Why Is Beryllium Hazardous?
Inhaling or contacting beryllium creates an immune response that causes individuals to become more sensitive to the substance. Beryllium sensitization puts workers at a higher risk of developing a debilitating lung disease known as chronic beryllium disease (CBD) or lung cancer. Not all who are exposed to beryllium become sensitized, and only those who have become sensitive are at risk of developing CBD.
There are little to no symptoms in the initial stages of CBD, but over time, the lungs become inflamed and develop granulomas that begin scarring the lungs, reducing their ability to function properly. There is no cure for CBD, but the symptoms can be treated. Symptoms of CBD include:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Fatigue.
- Cough.
- Fever.
- Weakness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Joint pain.
- Weight loss.
- Swollen lymph nodes, and enlarged liver in the late stages of disease.
How Can I Protect Myself From Beryllium Exposure?
Eliminating exposure to beryllium is the most effective way to reduce exposure, though that is not often possible for many workers. Employers are required to implement protective measures per OSHA’s beryllium standards for general industry, shipyards, and construction workplaces, such as:
- Personal protective devices, including face masks and respirators, for workers.
- Only minimal use of beryllium over equivalent alternative metals.
- Provide adequate ventilation.
- Isolate areas and production where beryllium is used.
- Utilize HEPA-filtered vacuums.
- Training for workers on safe handling and cleaning procedures.
To lessen family exposure, workers should wear work-owned uniforms and shoes rather than personal ones and leave them at the workplace, along with showering before leaving work. Those who have a disease from exposure may have the legal right to file a toxic tort claim.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Clients Harmed by Beryllium Exposure
Beryllium exposure can lead to chronic lung and breathing problems in many workers. If you have been diagnosed with a form of beryllium disease, our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Can Pesticides Cause Cancer?
Pesticides encourage plants to grow by controlling unwanted insects and weeds. People who work with pesticides may inhale or absorbs these chemicals through the skin. Even if you do not make or use these substances, it is nearly impossible to avoid contact with them entirely. Pesticides are probably used in your community, your school, and the places you shop, eat, and enjoy the outdoors. The general public is exposed to pesticide residue in fish, meat, and produce.
There are hundreds of different substances used as pesticides worldwide. Some have been identified as carcinogens, meaning there is evidence suggesting they cause cancer. Others are suspected of causing cancerous changes in the body. The risk of others is unknown and requires more research.
With so many different pesticides in use, evaluating every chemical will take time. Yet, as we have seen with some products, that research comes too late for individuals living with cancer.
Consider the widely-used weed killer Roundup. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) determined that glyphosate, a key ingredient in Roundup and other wisely-used pesticides, is a probable cancer-causing substance. The IARC cautioned that anyone who comes in contact with glyphosate pesticides should be concerned about toxic exposure to this substance. That warning came years after the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) asserted that glyphosate was safe for humans.
To date, thousands of lawsuits have been filed linking Roundup to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, with some plaintiffs winning significant awards against Bayer/Monsanto. Bayer bought Monsanto and has assumed the legal burden of fighting ongoing pesticide litigation.
Reducing Pesticide Exposure
There are things you can do to limit pesticide exposure and lower your risk of cancer and other health problems going forward.
Based on a systematic review of the health effects of pesticides published in the National Library of Medicine, public health experts recommend decreasing pesticide use for cosmetics, non-commercial purposes, around children, and at work. Much of that responsibility lies with the companies that produce our foods and consumer goods.
There are also some steps you can take to reduce the use of potentially harmful chemicals. First, whether you are controlling insects, mold and mildew, or weeds, choose your products carefully. Use the appropriate chemical for the job, and do not use more than the suggested amount.
Never use pesticides around children and animals. If possible, use non-chemical methods whenever possible. Washing fruits and vegetables before eating helps to remove some pesticide residue as well. Choose to buy from companies using alternatives to chemical pesticides when you can.
I Developed Cancer From Hazardous Chemicals. Do I Have Grounds for a Claim?
If you were diagnosed with cancer and believe it was caused by exposure to toxic pesticides at home or work, you may have grounds to file a civil claim. A consultation with a lawyer who focuses their practice on environmental toxic tort claims is the best place to start.
It is important to save any evidence related to your case, especially your medical records and documentation regarding the use of chemicals where the exposure occurred.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Clients Injured by Toxic Chemicals in Pesticides
Our schools, jobs, and neighborhoods should not make us sick. Our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. proudly fight to obtain justice for clients impacted by hazardous chemicals. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we assist clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Is Air Pollution Worse in the Winter?
Even when you are trying to not use appliances that cause pollution, you can still end up with poor air quality even inside your home. When you use any type of heating device, it dries out the air, and air pollutants often thrive in such environments.
Air pollution is a serious issue that is often overlooked. In winter weather, it becomes even more of a problem. Air pollution is the release of harmful gases and particles into the air. These can come from cars, factories, and power plants. They can also come from things like cigarettes and wood fires.
Air pollution is dangerous because it can cause health problems. It is linked to heart problems, lung problems, and even cancer. It can also worsen asthma. Air pollution is especially dangerous for children and the elderly.
In winter weather, air pollution becomes even more of a problem because the cold air traps the pollutants near the ground. This makes it harder for people to breathe and can cause serious health problems.
It is important to be aware of the dangers of air pollution and take steps to reduce it. You can do this by driving less, using public transportation, or carpooling. You can also reduce your use of electricity and switch to energy-efficient appliances.
Why Air Pollution Is Worse in Winter?
One reason why air pollution is worse during the winter is because the cold weather forces people to stay indoors more. This means that there is more traffic on the roads and more emissions from heating and cooking appliances. In addition, many people use their fireplaces or wood-burning stoves to keep warm, which can produce a lot of pollution.
Another reason why air pollution is worse during the winter is because cold weather creates inversions. An inversion occurs when a layer of cold air acts like a lid, trapping pollutants near the ground. This can cause a number of health problems, including respiratory problems, heart attacks, and even cancer.
How Does Air Pollution Affect Your Health?
Air pollution is a serious issue that can negatively affect people in a number of ways. The most obvious way air pollution harms people is by causing health problems. This includes respiratory problems, like asthma and heart problems. Air pollution can also cause long-term damage to the lungs and can increase the risk of developing cancer.
Another major way air pollution affects people is by harming the environment. Air pollution causes smog, which can obscure views and lead to breathing problems. It also contributes to climate change, which can have disastrous consequences.
Air pollution is a serious issue. It can cause major health problems for people, as well as harm to the environment. It is important to take steps to reduce air pollution in order to protect both people and the planet.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Those Injured by Environmental Hazards
If you have been harmed by an environmental hazard due to a negligent party, speak with one of our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. to learn more. Contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445 to schedule a consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Where Are PFAS Found?
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” are manmade materials used in many products for their repellant abilities. PFAS easily repel grease, water, and stains, and rose in popularity for use in non-stick cookware and similar products.
First developed in the 1940s by DuPont, the class of PFAS has grown to include thousands of chemicals resistant to environmental breakdown. They can be found in numerous consumer, commercial and industrial products, including food packaging and personal hygiene products, resulting in 99 percent of the population having a buildup of PFAS in their bodies. Animal species and environmental materials, such as water, soil, and dust, have also been found to contain levels of PFAS.
Though approved for use in food packaging and cookware by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency maintains the levels used are safe and that there is no harm to consumers. At present, there are no laws requiring manufacturers to disclose the use of PFAS in their products and materials.
The widespread use of PFAS and their versatile adaptability to various environments means humans are regularly exposed to forever chemicals in numerous ways. The majority of known exposure is low, however, as they accumulate in the body over time, the risk for illness increases with each exposure. Some of the more common forms of exposure include:
- Drinking PFAS-contaminated water.
- Working in industrial settings, such as manufacturing and processing plants, particularly PFAS manufacturing factories, or manufacturing products containing forever chemicals, such as paper, electronics, and textiles.
- Eating food containing PFAS, especially livestock exposed to PFAS of fish from contaminated water.
- Ingestion of dust or soil from PFAS-contaminated sites, such as landfills and hazardous waste disposal sites, particularly federal Superfund and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act sites.
- Consuming foods packaged with materials containing PFAS, such as fast-food containers and wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, grease-resistant papers, pizza boxes, and candy wrappers.
- Household cleaning products and stain and water-repellants utilized in clothing, fabric, upholstery, carpets, non-stick cookware, paints, sealants, and varnishes.
- Personal products, such as cosmetics, hair care products, and dental floss, among others.
- Exposure to biosolids fertilizer taken from wastewater treatment plants use on food crops and agriculture lands.
Tracking and assessing how exposures occurs and affect health is difficult given the extensive number of PFAS, each with varying levels of toxicity and effects, along with the many forms and levels of exposure occurring during different life stages.
What Health Risks Are Associated With Exposure to PFAS?
The longevity of forever chemicals, their ability to accumulate over time in the body, and their interaction with other substances creates the potential for health risks, such as:
- Increased risk of kidney, prostate, and testicular cancer.
- Lower fertility rates.
- Hormonal disruption.
- Hypertension in pregnant women, leading to preeclampsia.
- Reduced immunity system resulting in lesser response to vaccinations and the ability to fight infection.
- Developmental delays in children, including low birth weight, bone variations, behavioral changes, and accelerated puberty.
- Obesity and increased cholesterol levels.
Research into how various levels of PFAS exposure affects human health is ongoing, and efforts to update risk evaluations and assessments are also underway.
Media coverage in recent years has brought more attention to PFAS, alleging government agencies and companies continue approving and using forever chemicals in products despite knowing the dangerous toxicity levels, sparking a handful of class action lawsuits. Also, several brands and manufacturers are taking action to eliminate PFAS from their products, such as Patagonia, Inc., L.L. Bean, and Ralph Lauren, along with fast-food giants McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A.
Proposed changes are underway in federal government as well. In an effort to regulate PFAS levels in drinking water, the EPA initiated the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations in 2020. Congress introduced the 2021 Keep Food Containers Safe for PFAS Act, which is currently in review, and several states have begun enacting new regulations for food packaging.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Clients Affected by Environmental and Manmade Contaminants
Forever chemicals and many other manmade substances can potentially lead to many troubling health conditions. If you believe you have had increased exposure to PFAS or other manmade toxic substances, our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Silica Dust Exposure Puts Demotion Workers At Risk
Silica dust is a fine powder that can become airborne and endanger those who breathe it into their lungs. Demolition projects can produce silica dust, putting workers at risk.
Concrete, cement blocks, and bricks contain silica. When the demolition process crushes and grinds up those materials, it produces silica dust. The demolition process, utility vehicles, and heavy equipment can cause dust to spread into the air.
Spraying water and dust suppressants help prevent silica dust and other contaminants from becoming airborne. Wearing respirators can help prevent breathing in harmful silica dust. Using equipment that has air-conditioned and heated cabs with air filtration systems can protect operators as well.
What Is Silicosis?
Crystalline silica dust irritates the lungs and could lead to silicosis. The dust particles embed themselves in the lining of the lungs and cause irritation. Silicosis is similar to asbestosis because it causes inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Eventually, silicosis makes it much harder for the lungs to breathe and process oxygen.
Repeated exposure to silica dust makes silicosis more likely to occur. The greater the exposure, the faster the onset of silicosis. Silicosis is a debilitating disease that makes it difficult to perform daily activities. It also can cause death in extreme cases.
Filing a Claim for Silicosis
If you have been diagnosed with silicosis, you could file for Workers’ Compensation benefits. Workers’ Compensation benefits should pay for your medical treatments and other damages. Those damages could include loss of income if the condition makes it difficult for you to work or find employment.
Additionally, those who have silicosis may be eligible to file a toxic tort claim. An experienced attorney will determine your legal options.
Proving Silicosis
A medical diagnosis of silicosis shows how your illness is related to exposure. A medical specialist could determine your condition and show how exposure to silica dust lead to your diagnosis.
Once you have established the cause of your condition, you (your lawyer) will need to show that you suffered harm. Your medical diagnosis, medical costs, and loss of income would support your claim. Documenting how it affects your daily life is also helpful.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You if You Have a Silica-Related Illness
If you have been diagnosed with silicosis or another related disease, you can get legal help from one of our experienced Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.