Toxic Chemicals & Materials

Toxic chemicals and materials have made their way into all types consumer goods as well as houses, buildings, work materials and more. From lead paint on toys to chemicals embedded in the construction of our homes and workplaces, these toxic substances can give rise to wide ranging injuries – sometimes life threatening illnesses which can lurk for years before a person knows he or she is sick.Injuries arising from toxic materials or chemicals can give rise to different types of legal actions – including standard product liability lawsuits as well as "toxic torts." A toxic tort is a legally actionable injury caused by exposure to a toxic chemical or substance. Because toxic many people are often exposed to the same toxic substances, toxic tort claims often take the form of class actions, such as the long-running asbestos class action suits. Some toxic chemicals and materials have since been phased out of production in the U.S., including lead-based paints, DDT and asbestos. However, even after manufacturers stop using a given substance, lawsuits over injuries arising from years of prior exposure can continue for some time. Here you will find resources about toxic substances found in common products, in the home, on the job and elsewhere.

Learn About Toxic Chemicals & Materials

Asbestos
In the past, asbestos was used as insulation and a fire retardant in a wide variety of products. The dust from asbestos, however, can become deposited in the lungs and cause illnesses like asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Benzene
Benzene is a chemical that can be released into the air through motor vehicle exhaust, burning coal and oil, and tobacco smoke. Since it’s a known carcinogen, prolonged exposure to Benzene can greatly increase one’s chances of developing cancer.
Teflon
Teflon is a non-stick, stain-resistant material commonly used in cooking, automotive, and household items. Recently, the safety of Teflon coated cookware has been called into question, especially when the products are heated to very high temperatures.

Perchlorate
Perchlorates are a form of reactive chemicals used mainly in fireworks and explosives. Prolonged exposure to perchlorates may affect the functioning of the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism and other thyroid-related disorders.
Welding Rods
Welders are often exposed to toxic fumes while doing their job. The fumes from metallic elements used on welding roads have been linked to the development of serious conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
Legal Responsibility for Toxic Exposure
If you’ve developed a condition based on exposure to toxic chemicals, you may have legal recourse. Depending on the circumstances, the manufacturer, supplier, property owner, or your employer may be held liable for your injuries.

Toxic Chemicals & Materials Articles