Asbestos Levels In A Los Angeles Building Before And After An Earthquake - (1988)

Asbestos Levels in a Los Angeles Building Before and After an Earthquake: Legal and Medical Implications

Abstract
The study "Asbestos Levels In A Los Angeles Building Before And After An Earthquake," authored by W. J. S. Gruenwald and published in the American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal (1988), investigates the impact of an earthquake on airborne asbestos levels in an eleven-story office building. The building, located four miles west of downtown Los Angeles, contained fireproofing material with 20% chrysotile asbestos. Air samples collected before and after the earthquake revealed a slight increase in airborne asbestos fibers post-earthquake, though levels remained within permissible exposure limits. The study highlights the potential for structural disturbances, such as earthquakes, to release asbestos fibers into the air, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and managing asbestos-containing materials in buildings.

Legal Relevance
This study provides critical evidence for asbestos-related legal claims, particularly in cases involving exposure in buildings affected by structural disturbances. Key legal implications include:

1. Evidence of Fiber Release: The study demonstrates that asbestos-containing materials can release fibers into the air when disturbed, even in buildings that appear structurally sound. This supports claims that exposure risks increase after events like earthquakes.
2. Occupational History Relevance: For plaintiffs who worked or resided in buildings with asbestos-containing materials, this study strengthens the argument that their exposure was linked to inadequate maintenance or monitoring of such materials.
3. Counterarguments to Defense Claims: Defendants may argue that asbestos levels remained within permissible limits. However, the study underscores the potential for cumulative exposure over time, which is critical in cases involving diseases like mesothelioma or asbestosis that develop after prolonged exposure.
4. Negligence and Liability: The study highlights the responsibility of building owners, employers, and other parties to properly manage and remediate asbestos-containing materials, particularly after structural disturbances. Failure to do so can be presented as negligence in legal claims.

Occupation Groups at Risk
While the study focuses on a specific building, its findings are relevant to several occupational groups frequently exposed to asbestos in similar environments. These include:

• Construction and Renovation Workers: Often involved in repairs or renovations in buildings with asbestos-containing materials, especially after structural damage.
• Insulation and Fireproofing Workers: Directly handle asbestos-containing materials, such as the fireproofing material described in the study.
• HVAC Technicians and Maintenance Workers: May disturb asbestos-containing materials while working on air handling systems or ceiling registers.
• Building Supervisors and Foremen: Oversee work in environments where asbestos exposure risks are present, particularly during post-earthquake repairs.
• Office Workers in Affected Buildings: Though not traditionally considered high-risk, office workers in buildings with asbestos-containing materials may face exposure during structural disturbances.

These groups are at heightened risk due to their proximity to asbestos-containing materials, particularly in scenarios involving structural damage or inadequate asbestos management.

Current Medical Understanding
The study aligns with current medical knowledge regarding asbestos-related health risks. It correctly identifies that structural disturbances, such as earthquakes, can increase airborne asbestos levels. However, it also notes that short-term increases within permissible exposure limits may not pose significant health risks. This understanding is consistent with modern research, which emphasizes the cumulative nature of asbestos exposure in causing diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The study reinforces the importance of proactive asbestos management to minimize exposure risks.

Citation
Gruenwald, W. J. S. (1988). Asbestos Levels In A Los Angeles Building Before And After An Earthquake. American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal.

National Library of Medicine Link
Unfortunately, a direct link to the National Library of Medicine's page for this study is not available. Readers are encouraged to consult reputable medical and industrial hygiene journals for further information.

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