Trichloroethylene (TCE) Exposure Lawsuits: A Comprehensive Overview
Trichloroethylene (TCE), an industrial solvent and degreaser, has been linked to various health concerns, including cancer, kidney disease, and reproductive problems. Over the years, numerous lawsuits have been filed against companies responsible for TCE exposure, seeking compensation for the harm caused to individuals and communities.
Allegations in TCE Exposure Lawsuits
Plaintiffs in TCE exposure lawsuits typically allege that they were exposed to TCE through various means, including:
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Occupational Exposure: Individuals who worked in industries that used TCE, such as manufacturing, dry cleaning, and electronics, may have been exposed through inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion.
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Environmental Exposure: TCE contamination in drinking water or air can lead to exposure for individuals living near industrial sites or waste disposal facilities.
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Consumer Product Exposure: TCE was once used in various consumer products, such as paints, varnishes, and adhesives, exposing individuals through inhalation or skin contact.
Health Effects Associated with TCE Exposure
Studies have linked TCE exposure to various health problems, including:
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Cancer: TCE is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). It has been associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer, liver cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and bladder cancer.
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Kidney Disease: TCE exposure can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney dysfunction and chronic kidney disease.
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Reproductive Problems: TCE exposure has been linked to infertility, miscarriage, and birth defects.
Legal Actions Against TCE Manufacturers and Polluters
Numerous lawsuits have been filed against companies responsible for TCE manufacturing, use, or disposal, alleging that their negligence or intentional actions caused TCE exposure and resulting health problems. These lawsuits aim to hold the responsible parties accountable for the harm caused and seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Notable TCE Exposure Lawsuits
Several TCE exposure lawsuits have gained significant attention, including:
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Camp Lejeune Justice Act: In 2022, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act was signed into law, allowing individuals who were exposed to TCE-contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base in North Carolina, to file lawsuits against the U.S. government.
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Brookhaven National Laboratory Lawsuits: In 2019, two former employees of Brookhaven National Laboratory filed lawsuits against the lab and two TCE manufacturers, alleging that occupational exposure to TCE caused them to develop kidney disease.
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Schaeffler Group Lawsuit: In 2016, a jury awarded $20.6 million to a Missouri woman who claimed that TCE contamination from a nearby manufacturing plant caused her to develop autoimmune hepatitis.
Conclusion
Trichloroethylene exposure lawsuits continue to be filed as individuals and communities seek justice and compensation for the harm caused by TCE exposure. These lawsuits raise awareness of the potential health risks associated with TCE and encourage companies to take necessary precautions to prevent future exposure.
