Last week’s steam line break at a Kingsport, Tennessee chemical plant blasted asbestos-contaminated materials into nearby neighborhoods, spurring fears that exposure could risk mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. The company’s management is warning neighbors not to touch the debris and is sending out a response team to evaluate its impact.
Tennessee Company Takes Swift Action to Prevent Mesothelioma
Immediately after the “high-pressure steam incident,” plant officials fearing mesothelioma risk began testing the debris that blanketed nearby neighborhoods. Their initial testing confirmed that some of the construction materials contained asbestos.
Concerned that residents risk mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases by cleaning up the mess, the company quickly announced that it was sending out a response team. They asked that neighbors impacted by debris call a hotline and report their name, address, phone number, and a description of how the debris had impacted them. They urged that people leave debris where they find it and not attempt a clean-up on their own.
Asbestos Risk Drives Quick Response
Eastman Chemical is urging the public to assume that any debris they encounter is contaminated with asbestos, the carcinogenic material that causes mesothelioma. They urged people to stay away from it and to let the company take care of collection.
A press release said in part, “Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, can be hazardous to human health following exposures of a significant amount and duration – exposures of a type not anticipated from this event. Eastman will continue to work closely with regulatory officials to ensure we are taking all necessary steps to ensure debris is removed according to all established safety protocols.”
The actions that the company is taking make clear the dangers posed by asbestos and their concerns about the risk of mesothelioma. If you or someone you love has been harmed by this type of exposure, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
