In recent years, workers who built, maintained, or operated the Salem Harbor Power Station have developed and died of mesothelioma, lung cancer and other asbestos-related diseases. Salem Harbor Power Station, on a 65-acre waterfront site in historic Salem, Massachusetts, consists of three coal-fired generating units, and one oil-fired unit. Salem Harbor began commercial operation in 1951. Dominion purchased the station in February 2005.
Until the mid-1970’s, asbestos-containing materials were utilized as high temperature insulation for equipment such as pipes, boilers and turbines. Inhaling dust and particles from the application and maintenance of asbestos insulation and other materials placed employees at risk of developing serious health problems. Not only employees of Salem Harbor were affected. Many tradesmen working for sub-contractors who built, repaired and maintained the plant were exposed. These trades include pipe fitters, boiler makers, millwrights, pipe coverers, electricians and sheet metal workers. Even those not in direct contact with asbestos materials remain at risk for the development of asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma or lung cancer.
Once a year, the Salem Harbor power station went into a maintenance period called “shut down” when workers were directed to dismantle asbestos insulation from power turbines, pipes and boilers. During annual shut downs, worn asbestos insulation was removed by sawing insulation off pipes and flat surfaces, a process that filled the work atmosphere with asbestos dust and fibers. This work created enormous asbestos dust clouds.
Once the worn insulation was removed, reapplication of asbestos insulation was necessary so that the pipes, boilers and turbines effectively could contain steam and other high temperature materials. During insulation reapplication, to prepare cement, dry asbestos cement mix was continuously used, creating large clouds of asbestos dust. Most workers were completely unaware of the dangers of exposure to the asbestos dust, and performed their work without masks or protective gear.
Having represented workers from the Salem Harbor power station for 40 years, attorneys at Thornton Law Firm have gathered a vast amount of information concerning the type and variety of asbestos-containing products at the Salem Harbor power station. Our Boston, Massachusetts mesothelioma attorneys understand how important it is for you to secure legal representation as soon as possible after a diagnosis of mesothelioma or lung cancer. If you or a loved one were once employed at the Salem Harbor power station and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer, we urge you to contact us regarding your legal rights or call us at (888) 491-9726 for a no obligation consultation.
