Huge clouds of pollutants generated by the collapse of the World Trade Centres are still affecting the health of New Yorkers. It is almost a decade since the attack on 11th September 2001, in which levels of asbestos 93,000 times the safe amount were released into the air, significantly increasing the risk of asbestos exposure and asbestos-related conditions.
During the 1960s and 70s, when the World Trade Centre was erected, many buildings were constructed with asbestos. It was highly prized for its many useful properties, including its fire and heat resistance and insulation. Despite these benefits, if the material becomes damaged it can be inhaled and lead to fatal illnesses such as asbestosis and the aggressive lung cancer, mesothelioma.
The US government is currently still debating a bill that would compensate rescue workers who risked their lives in 9/11. This would be welcome news to the 110,000 that are reported to have suffered asbestos exposure during and after the World Trade Centre's collapse. This includes the 80,000 tower workers, 30,000 surrounding residents and the 4,000 first responders. At least 200 of those exposed have already passed away from asbestos-related diseases, research from the New York State Department of Health revealed.
This would be a lifeline to the many victims who have been unable to claim compensation since the Victims Compensation Fund was closed. The bill would reopen this fund as well as ensuring health care and monitoring of the 9/11 victims.
Deborah Reeve was the first 9/11 emergency responder to die of mesothelioma. Previously a paramedic of the Fire Department of New York, Deborah began to suffer the symptoms of severe lung disease shortly after the attack, and died in 2006. Doctor's agreed that her exposure to asbestos was the result of her days spent working at the recovery site. Her case is unusual in that the mesothelioma developed in just 3 years, convincing doctors that the amount of asbestos inhaled by Deborah must have been enormous.
Solicitors Liverpool ead solicitors can represent you in an asbestos claim or other personal injury claim.
