Did you work at the Montaup Power Company in Somerset, Mass.?
History of Montaup Power
In recent years, workers who built, maintained or operated the Montaup Electric Company power station in Somerset, Massachusetts have developed and died of mesothelioma, lung cancer and other asbestos-related diseases. Montaup Electric Company was founded in 1923 and operated the power plant on the Taunton River near Narragansett Bay through much of the twentieth century. In 2000 Montaup Electric Company merged with New England Power Company.
Asbestos Products Used at Montaup Power
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.
Trades Exposed to Asbestos
Not only employees of Montaup Electric Company 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.
Work That May Have Exposed You to Asbestos
Once a year, the Montaup 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.
What Can You Do?
Having represented workers from the Montaup power station for over 42 years, attorneys at Thornton Law Firm LLP have gathered a vast amount of information concerning the type and variety of asbestos-containing products at the Montaup power station. Our clients understand the importance of securing 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 Montaup power station and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer, we urge you to contact us regarding your legal rights. Call 888-632-0108 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
