If you’ve worked in the farming industry and fear asbestos exposure with subsequent health problems, reaching out to Bailey & Glasser, LLP, could be a significant step. We can guide you in assessing options for compensation, including workers’ compensation claims or taking legal action against the parties at fault.
How are Farmers at Risk?
Farmers may encounter asbestos in several ways, mainly due to the age of many farm buildings and equipment. Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials and machinery until the late 20th century, so older farms are likely to contain asbestos-containing materials.
Asbestos Sources
Some of the sources of asbestos that farmers may be exposed to include:
- Roofing and siding: Many older farm buildings have roofing and siding materials made from asbestos-containing cement or shingles. As these materials age, they can deteriorate, releasing asbestos fibers into the air.
- Insulation: Asbestos was widely used for insulation purposes due to its heat-resistant properties. This includes insulation in walls, attics, and around heating systems in farm buildings.
- Tiles: Floor and ceiling tiles in older buildings might contain asbestos. As these tiles break down or are disturbed during renovations, they can become a source of asbestos exposure.
- Brake linings: Older tractors and other farm vehicles often used brake linings that contained asbestos. When these linings wear down, asbestos fibers can be released.
- Gaskets: Asbestos was commonly used in gaskets found in engines and machinery due to its durability and heat resistance. Over time, these gaskets can degrade, or when they are replaced, they can release asbestos fibers.
- Insulation in machinery: Asbestos was also used in the insulation of older farming equipment, especially in parts that were exposed to high temperatures, like engines and exhaust systems.
- Pipes: Asbestos was used to insulate pipes, particularly in older heating systems. As these pipes age or are disturbed, the asbestos insulation can become friable (easily crumbled), releasing fibers.
- Boilers: Older boilers often contain asbestos insulation. This is particularly concerning when boilers are repaired, replaced, or maintained, as these activities can disturb the asbestos and release fibers into the environment.
Manufacturers of Asbestos-Containing Farming Equipment
- American Cyanamid Company: One of the biggest manufacturers of agricultural products, initially focusing on cyanamid, a key element in fertilizer.
- Dana Corporation: Produced specialized gaskets for tractors.
- Deere & Company: Founded in 1837, Deere & Company manufactured farming equipment and machinery.
- DeWitt Products: Manufactured an asbestos liquid roof coating which was recommended for use on barn roofs.
- Goulds Company: Goulds Company produced water and centrifugal pumps for agricultural and industrial businesses.
- Johns Manville: JM made a wide range of construction products used for farm buildings, including insulation, wallboard, shingles, and corrugated transite cement roofing.
- Midwest Products of Illinois: This company sold a plastic roof cement that was leakproof and specifically aimed for use on farms.
- W.R. Grace: W.R. Grace produced Zonolite, a brand of vermiculite products that were used by farmers in fertilizers and potting soil.
Final Thoughts
If your work in the farming industry has possibly exposed you to asbestos, leading to health issues, Bailey & Glasser, LLP offers a free consultation to help. Our dedicated asbestos team is experienced in representing people just like you. We understand how devastating a mesothelioma diagnosis can be and work tirelessly toward getting you justice.
