Archive for category Industry
Australian Union Pushes for Asbestos Safety
Posted by Mellissa@SokoloveLaw in Industry, Legislation on October 21, 2009
Australia’s Construction Workers Union is fighting the Industrial Relations Minister over proposed occupational health and safety laws. A new law has been drafted that would make it more difficult for unions to investigate unsafe conditions at work sites. The union recently informed the public about asbestos at the Pickles Auctions, under the new law union representatives would be penalized for the same action. The Union is pushing to maintain their rights to protect workers.
The Union is also advocating for an asbestos registry of people who have had asbestos exposure through their workplace. The registry could help victims if they develop asbestos-related illness in the future. The Union is working with victims and advocates to move this project forward. For additional information about the registry or to sign up: AWU National Asbestos Register
To read the ABC News article – Union anger over asbestos safety
Asbestos Claims Delayed in Australia
Posted by Mellissa@SokoloveLaw in Industry, Legal on October 18, 2009
Australia has two main asbestos manufacturers, James Hardie and CSR. Last week The Australian reported that claims filed by victims suffering from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases have been delayed due to disagreements between these companies. Until last year, James Hardie and CSR had an agreement about compensation for victims exposed to asbestos in products they manufactured.
Since the agreement to share costs is no longer in place, they have been placing undue stress and burden on asbestos exposure victims. The companies have asked victims, who were likely exposed decades ago, to identify which asbestos sheeting and roofing they were exposed to. The arguing between companies has also lead to delays in the settlement of victims’ cases.
Victims suffering from mesothelioma often don’t have long to live and would like to see their cases resolved quickly. Victims, families, and advocates are calling for swifter resolution between James Hardie and CSR.
The Australian article: “Cruel and inhumane” squabble puts asbestos victims in limbo
Experts Ask for Asbestos Ban in Dubai
Posted by Mellissa@SokoloveLaw in Exposure, Industry on September 29, 2009
Last night, Charles Faulkner, principle consultant at WSP Environment and Energy, did a presentation on asbestos in the UAE (United Arab Emirates). During his presentation he spoke about the reasons he believes the UAE should ban all asbestos-containing materials. Mr. Faulkner and other experts are concerned about the safety of those handling and disposing of asbestos.
Despite the dangers of asbestos exposure being widely known for many years, reports show the UAE imports more asbestos than other Middle Eastern countries. It continues to be used regularly in construction. He states that as long as asbestos continues to be used – it will continue to be a public hazard. Long term affects of asbestos exposure include mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. He urges government officials to impose an asbestos ban.
Experts in Dubai are not alone. Asbestos is still not banned in the U.S. and other countries around the world. We could learn from countries such as Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt who all have a full asbestos ban.
Read the article: Plea for asbestos ban
James Hardie Executives Banned and Fined
Posted by Mellissa@SokoloveLaw in Industry on August 20, 2009
Breaking news about James Hardie executives being banned and fined in regard to breaching the Corporations Act when creating the asbestos compensation fund in Australia. This is a controversial ruling in the community of those who lives have been affected by asbestos. Victims of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases don’t feel this punishment is enough; and I agree. My opinion is these highly paid and high power executives won’t feel this punishment nearly as hard as the victims of asbestos exposure who may receive little or no compensation.
Read the full story below:
Former James Hardie executives banned, fined over asbestos compensation
Closing Arguments Begin In W.R. Grace Asbestos Trial
Posted by Josh@SokoloveLaw in Exposure, Industry, Legal on May 6, 2009
Closing arguments in the W.R. Grace asbestos trial got under way today in Missoula, Montana.
Arguments were kicked off by the prosecution this morning with the defense’s closing argument being presented in the afternoon.
W.R. Grace is accused of conspiring to conceal the dangers brought on by asbestos exposure brought on by the company’s vermiculite mines that were closed in the early 1990’s. Many residents in the area have contracted mesothelioma, the deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure, and they feel they have W.R. Grace to blame.
Learn more about your asbestos legal options.
-
Follow Us
-
MesoRC on Twitter
