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US tunnel workers face mesothelioma risk

March 29, 2006 - Washington: Workers who work in the Capitol, the seat of US Congress in Washington, tunnels say they risk a slow death from asbestos-related disease.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen, linked to lung cancer and to mesothelioma, a cancer caused only by asbestos exposure. It causes other health problems, including asbestosis.

According to the workers the tunnels covered with thick asbestos dust, punishing heat and locked emergency exits.

The Hill, a newsletter that covers Congress, reports that it obtained a copy of a letter sent to legislators by 10 employees of the Office of the Architect of the Capitol, which is responsible for maintaining the complex.

The workers said that the tunnels that connect the power plant to the House and Senate office buildings and the Capitol are so dangerous that Capitol Police do not patrol them. This has also raised security risk.

In their letter, the workers said the air in the tunnels is not surveyed for asbestos.

"The one thing we can tell you is we have breathed in an awful lot because it is everywhere and you can see it and physically pick it up," workers said.

Railroad caused asbestosis and colon cancer, suit claims

By Steve Gonzalez - Edwardsville Bureau
March 29, 2006 - A man suffering from asbestosis and colon cancer filed a Federal Employers' Liability Act suit in Madison County Circuit Court March 27 claiming Illinois Central Railroad (ICR) is responsible for his illnesses.

Charles Cleary alleges that on May 8, 2003, he was diagnosed with asbestosis and also claims that in July or August 2005, was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. His complaint states that he has been given three- to- four years to live.

Cleary clams that his injuries were caused in whole or in part by the negligence of ICR which failed to use ordinary care to provide him with a reasonably safe place to work. The suit also claims ICR failed to supply safe methods of work, reasonably safe equipment and sufficient help.

The railroad also failed to inspect the asbestos levels and failed to modify or eliminate certain job duties so to minimize the levels of asbestos, the complaint states.

According to Cleary, he has in the past experienced and endured, and may for an indefinite period of time in the future experience and endure pain, suffering, inconvenience, irritation and annoyance.

Cleary claims that he has become liable for medical expenses, suffered loss of wages, and has suffered an impairment of his general health, strength and vitality, and the loss of the ability to enjoy life.

Represented by Daniel Francis of St. Louis, Clearly is seeking damages in excess of $50,000 plus all costs of the suit.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Andy Matoesian.