In a significant legal win, a Pennsylvania jury awarded $3.8 million to Harry and Rae Chirdon in a mesothelioma lawsuit against Foster Wheeler Corporation.
This case shows how dangerous asbestos exposure can be and why it’s important to hold companies responsible for worker safety.
Foster Wheeler’s responsibility for asbestos exposure
Harry Chirdon, a 76-year-old retired boilermaker, got mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos while working for Foster Wheeler. Even though he worked for the company for only 10 weeks, the exposure changed his life forever. Foster Wheeler was found fully responsible for not following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules on asbestos safety.
The jury awarded $2.3 million in compensatory damages and $1.5 million in punitive damages to show how serious the company’s negligence was. Punitive damages are rare in asbestos cases, highlighting how much Foster Wheeler failed to care about worker safety.
The dangers of asbestos exposure
Asbestos exposure is still a big danger in industries like boilermaking, where workers often deal with old equipment that contains asbestos. Mesothelioma is a very aggressive cancer caused by asbestos, and there is no cure. It requires tough treatment. Harry Chirdon had to go through surgery to remove part of his lung to help fight the disease.
This case is a reminder that even with safety rules in place, workers are still at risk if companies don’t put safety first.
How legal help can make a difference
Cases like Chirdon’s show why experienced legal help is important to hold negligent companies accountable. Law firms that represent asbestos cases can help clients through the complicated legal process, from collecting evidence to navigating court.
Skilled lawyers work to get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress, making sure victims and their families get justice and financial support.
The importance of accountability
Legal victories like this one show the power of holding companies accountable to protect workers’ rights. Families affected by asbestos exposure need to fight for justice and protect their future.