Ambler: Reviving a Former Asbestos Town
Ambler, once known as the “Asbestos Capital of the World,” has triumphed over its tumultuous past and become a beacon of resilience and revitalization. Despite the societal and personal challenges posed by asbestos, the community has emerged more vital than ever.
Ambler’s transformation is a testament to the unwavering spirit of its residents and provides valuable lessons and hope for other communities facing similar struggles.
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If you believe that you were exposed to asbestos, even as a child, speak to a healthcare provider about tests and screening to help diagnose lung-scarring and screen for asbestos-related diseases.
Keasbey & Mattison Co.
The town’s history is intimately connected to the Keasbey & Mattison Co., which established an asbestos manufacturing plant in Ambler in 1881. The company’s success led to remarkable growth and prosperity for the town, with numerous buildings constructed to accommodate the burgeoning workforce. However, the materials used in these buildings contained asbestos, a decision that would have unforeseen and severe consequences.
| Asbestos is highly resistant to heat, pressure and corrosion, so it was used in many products, vehicles and buildings. In particular, many workplaces like factories, refineries, foundries and shipyards involve high amounts of heat, and were built with a lot of asbestos. | |||
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Employees, consumers and neighbors were not told about the dangers of asbestos.
Residents were unaware of the health risks associated with asbestos, and the buildings that were once symbols of progress and industry became potential sources of danger. The asbestos-based materials used in construction posed a significant risk to the health and well-being of the residents, as they could trigger respiratory diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.1
Asbestos has no taste or smell.
You may not know you’re breathing it.
Rising from its Asbestos Past
Ambler’s trajectory from a thriving company town to a community grappling with the haunting legacy of asbestos stands as a poignant reminder of the consequences that can arise from the unbridled pursuit of progress. The town’s subsequent journey towards remediation and revitalization is a compelling tale of resilience and adaptation as Ambler endeavors to reconcile its past and forge a brighter, safer future for its inhabitants.
Ambler is a former asbestos capital that stands out for not becoming a ghost town.
Ambler truly stands out from Chrysotile, Arizona, and Asbestos, Canada, due to its exceptional efforts in reviving its community. While Chrysotile remains trapped in the shadows of its asbestos history and Asbestos struggles with its negative associations, Ambler has made significant progress in reclaiming its identity and revitalizing its core.
The difference in outcomes between these towns is striking and undeniable. Chrysotile is a haunting reminder of the lingering impact of asbestos, with remnants of the industry casting a sense of abandonment over its streets. In contrast, Ambler has shown remarkable resilience and embarked on a transformational journey that has breathed new life into its community. Asbestos, unfortunately, remains entangled in its past, hindered by its name and struggling to redefine itself.
Image Asbestos ambler article bodySecond-hand asbestos exposure
Unfortunately, many workers’ families and other household members were exposed to asbestos as well, as asbestos was brought home daily in neighborhoods across the U.S. on work-clothing. This is often known as second-hand asbestos exposure (‘take home’ / household exposure).
1 in 5
In studies of asbestos disease, 1 in 5 cases of asbestos exposure were caused by secondary asbestos exposure.2
A Designated Superfund Site
Ambler’s success is largely due to its unwavering spirit, proactive community engagement, and collective determination to move forward despite the burden of asbestos. Its remarkable strides in rejuvenation serve as an inspiration and a valuable source of insights for other communities facing similar challenges. Ambler’s triumph offers hope and underscores the transformative power of collective action and resilience in shaping a brighter future for all.
“The overall evidence suggests there is no safe level of asbestos exposure.”Source: National Cancer Institute (NIH)3 |
Ambler was designated a Superfund Site for its significant toxic contamination by asbestos.
Ambler’s arduous battle with asbestos contamination, however, resulted in a significant recognition: the town’s designation as a Superfund site—a classification reserved for areas of extreme environmental hazard. This designation is a stark acknowledgment of the severity of the asbestos contamination that plagues the town, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive cleanup initiatives and continuous monitoring.
| Asbestos causes cancer. Health researchers are learning how. Studies show that asbestos fibers embed in the bodily tissue:
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What is a Superfund site?
The designation of a Superfund site by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a serious matter, as it signifies that a location is heavily contaminated with hazardous substances, posing significant risks to human health4 and the environment. However, this designation also authorizes the EPA to take decisive action to mitigate the contamination and protect the surrounding communities.
For Ambler, being labeled a Superfund5 site underscores the urgency of the asbestos issue and its potential dangers to residents and the ecosystem.
However, various stakeholders, including government agencies, environmental experts, and community organizations, respond in a coordinated effort to initiate comprehensive cleanup operations. These efforts typically involve the removal or containment of contaminated materials, soil remediation, water treatment, and the implementation of long-term monitoring systems to ensure ongoing safety.
The Superfund designation also enables access to federal funding, allowing for more extensive and effective remediation measures. The EPA plays a crucial role in overseeing the cleanup process, collaborating with local authorities, and engaging with the affected community to develop and implement a remediation plan customized to Ambler’s unique challenges.
Sharing a home or vehicle with someone wearing asbestos-tainted clothing puts you at risk of asbestos-related diseases. 6 7 8 9 10
Superfund status isn’t about giving up – it’s about cleaning up.
While the Superfund designation signifies a significant environmental hazard, it also represents a commitment to comprehensively addressing the contamination and taking concrete steps to protect the community’s well-being. Through diligent cleanup efforts, ongoing monitoring, and a vigilant commitment to environmental stewardship, Ambler is confident in transcending its Superfund status and paving the way for a healthier, safer future for all its residents.
20% of female mesothelioma cases are from ‘take home’ asbestos exposure.11 |
Mitigating the Effects of Asbestos
In Ambler, the health issues stemming from past asbestos exposure are a stark reminder of the challenges many homeowners face when dealing with older buildings. Asbestos and mold, prevalent in aging structures, pose potential risks to the well-being of residents. To ensure a safe and healthy living environment, homeowners must be proactive and take preventive measures.
The advantages of using a professional when dealing with asbestos or mold.
To address concerns related to asbestos and mold, homeowners have the option to consult with professionals specializing in environmental assessments. These experts can conduct thorough inspections, assess the presence of hazards, and perform necessary tests to identify the extent of contamination. They utilize advanced techniques to sample materials, air, or surfaces for asbestos fibers and mold spores.
“All forms of asbestos are carcinogenic to humans.” 12
By engaging professionals, homeowners gain valuable insights into the potential risks within their homes. If asbestos or mold is detected, appropriate action can be taken to minimize exposure and prevent further health complications. Depending on the findings, remediation or abatement procedures can be recommended to remove or contain hazardous materials safely.
Don’t put your head in the sand (or the asbestos dust).
Being proactive about testing for asbestos and mold safeguards the health and well-being of homeowners and their families and helps create a healthier community overall. It is essential to prioritize regular inspections, particularly for older homes or those that have undergone renovations, as these may have a higher likelihood of asbestos or mold contamination.
By taking these preventive measures and staying informed about potential hazards, homeowners can ensure that their living spaces are safe, healthy, and conducive to a high quality of life. A proactive approach to environmental testing and remediation empowers homeowners to make informed decisions, protect their loved ones, and promote the overall well-being of their community.
Do You Qualify For Compensation?
Quickly and easily find out how you were exposed by searching W.A.R.D., the largest asbestos database on the planet.
FREE SEARCH >Conclusion
Ambler’s journey exemplifies resilience and community-driven revitalization, offering valuable insights for other communities facing similar challenges. Despite ongoing asbestos-related issues, the town’s ability to navigate these complexities highlights the importance of proactive measures. Ambler raises awareness about the lasting effects of hazardous materials and serves as a beacon of hope in a world still grappling with their legacy.
AsbestosClaims.Law
Asbestos claims aren’t just a day in the office for Justinian C. Lane.
They’re a mission.
In the past, workers exposed to asbestos were kept in the dark about the dangers of asbestos exposure. Among those workers were Justinian’s grandparents and his own father.
Unfortunately, they were also kept in the dark about the compensation options available to them, such as asbestos lawsuits and trust funds. In their later years, they died from asbestos-related cancers.
Because no one in Justinian’s family knew their options, they never received any compensation for the death of their loved ones.
Today, we’re working to turn the tide.
Significant compensation may be available to you if you have contracted an asbestos-related illness or injury. This includes workers as well as family members who have been exposed.
Compensation is your key to receiving the medical treatment you need, funding asbestos removal services, and maintaining your physical well-being.
Want to know one of the quickest and easiest ways to receive compensation? Let us talk to you about asbestos trust claims. This option can often avoid lawsuits altogether.
We want to hear your story, and more importantly, we want to bring redemption to it.
Need help filing a claim? No problem, you can email us at [email protected].
Would you rather talk over the phone? Simply call or text us, at (206) 455-9190.
You won’t pay a penny to us unless you receive money first, so there’s no risk.
In addition to legal claims, veterans disability, social security and employment protection like workers compensation, FELA and The Jones Act for maritime workers, there are asbestos trusts that have been set up to compensate those harmed by asbestos without having to file a lawsuit.
The dangers of asbestos used to be an industry-guarded secret kept from suffering people like Justinian’s family. Not anymore. We’re bringing you the truth.
We’ve created numerous resources to help answer your questions and empower you with the information you need to know and act on.
Our website has a wealth of information dedicated to things like health and safety, asbestos testing, asbestos removal, and legal information about compensation for asbestos injuries.
Are you a visual learner? No problem!
Our YouTube page has infographics, an asbestos history series, and other helpful resources for you to check out!
| Not sure where or when you were exposed to asbestos? Let W.A.R.D. help you! The Worldwide Asbestos Research Database (W.A.R.D) is the largest asbestos information database, period. If you need answers related to specific locations, products, or what type of compensation may be available to you due to asbestos exposure, W.A.R.D. is the place to start. |
Working with us is risk-free. Unless you receive compensation money, there are NO FEES! Speak to us about asbestos litigation today.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555985/
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-22249-2
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14737140.2020.1745067#:~:text=Introduction%3A%20Asbestos%2C%20the%20most%20frequent%20cause%20of%20occupational,of%20asbestos%20victims%20are%20likely%20to%20remain%20high.
1 See Asbestosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov).
2 Tompa E, Kalcevich C, McLeod C, Lebeau M, Song C, McLeod K, et al. The economic burden of lung cancer and mesothelioma due to occupational and para-occupational asbestos exposure.Occup Environ Med 2017; 74: 816-22.
3 National Cancer Institute (NIH), Asbestos Fact Sheet.
4 See Asbestos-related cancers: the ‘Hidden Killer’ remains a global threat.
5 See The presence of Superfund sites as a determinant of life expectancy in the United States.
6 Anua, S.M., Semple, S., Shakri, S.F.M., Safuan, S., Mazlan, N. and Asri, A.A.M., 2019. A review of the take-home exposure pathway of workplace hazards. International Journal of Medical Toxicology & Legal Medicine, 22(3and4), pp.13-19.
7 Ferrante, D., Bertolotti, M., Todesco, A., Mirabelli, D., Terracini, B. and Magnani, C., 2007. Cancer mortality and incidence of mesothelioma in a cohort of wives of asbestos workers in Casale Monferrato, Italy. Environmental Health Perspectives, 115(10), pp.1401-1405.
8 Miller, A., 2005. Mesothelioma in household members of asbestos‐exposed workers: 32 United States cases since 1990. American journal of industrial medicine, 47(5), pp.458-462.
9 Reid, A., Heyworth, J., De Klerk, N. and Musk, A.W., 2008. The mortality of women exposed environmentally and domestically to blue asbestos at Wittenoom, Western Australia. Occupational and environmental medicine, 65(11), pp.743-749.
10 İşten, B.H.S.T.O. and Maruziyetler, E.T., 2021. Exposures Moved from Work to Home as a Public Health Hazard.
11 Tompa E, Kalcevich C, McLeod C, Lebeau M, Song C, McLeod K, et al. The economic burden of lung cancer and mesothelioma due to occupational and para-occupational asbestos exposure.Occup Environ Med 2017; 74: 816-22.
12 IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. Arsenic, metals, fibres, and dusts. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. 2012 ;100(Pt C):11-465. PMID: 23189751.