Mississippi Asbestos Regulations — Deadlines, Liability, & Lawsuits

Asbestos has been used in countless construction projects and various types of manufacturing for decades in the United States. However, once the health risks of this substance became apparent, asbestos was no longer widely used. Every state has implemented regulations to specifically address the hazards of asbestos. In Mississippi, asbestos regulations are essential for many employers in various industries, and workers in these industries should know what they entail.

Important Mississippi Asbestos Regulations

Mississippi lawmakers have implemented various regulations designed to reduce the risks faced by workers in many fields, as well as the public:

• Mississippi requires specific accreditation and certification for contractors to perform any type of work with asbestos-containing materials. The state also requires the completion of specific training programs in order to obtain these certifications.
• There are specific rules for handling demolition and renovation operations in which asbestos exposure has been determined to be a risk. For example, asbestos inspections are often required for these operations, and if asbestos is identified during operations, work should cease immediately until the hazard can be thoroughly inspected.
• The state also enforces specific rules for asbestos management in school buildings throughout the state. Many older school buildings were constructed using asbestos, and any damage or deterioration will require careful inspection.
• Mississippi law also includes regulations and guidance for handling asbestos during storm cleanup procedures. Heavy storms can damage older buildings that contain asbestos, releasing contaminated debris into the environment.

All employers in Mississippi must not only adhere to state regulations for asbestos, but also those set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). At the federal level, OSHA requires employers to implement engineering and work practice controls designed to reduce asbestos exposure levels, and there are maximum permissible exposure levels all employers must acknowledge.

There are more than 3,000 new mesothelioma cases diagnosed in the United States each year, and workers in industries like construction and mining are at increased risk of asbestos exposure at work. Employers in Mississippi must follow both OSHA regulations and Mississippi asbestos regulations to not only ensure the safest possible work environment for their employees but also to minimize the risk of facing liability for injured workers’ damages.

What to Do After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis in Mississippi

The only known cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure, and the majority of people who develop this disease were exposed to asbestos while working. Treatment can only manage symptoms and preserve life expectancy; mesothelioma is an incurable and terminal illness. About 65% of people who receive chemotherapy for mesothelioma survive for three or more years, but outcomes vary based on multiple factors.

If you believe you developed mesothelioma because of an employer’s failure to follow Mississippi asbestos regulations, it is crucial to consult an experienced Mississippi mesothelioma lawyer at your first opportunity. If a current or former employer is liable for your condition, you will need an attorney’s help to pinpoint the cause of your condition and hold the correct party or parties accountable.

It’s possible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and your pain and suffering if you have the right attorney handling your case. The attorneys at Wallace & Graham have years of experience representing clients in mesothelioma cases throughout Mississippi, so reach out to our team at your first opportunity to learn how we can assist you with your case.

FAQs

Q: What Are the OSHA Rules for Asbestos?

A: The OSHA rules for asbestos pertain to required training for employers performing any operations that pose a risk of asbestos exposure, setting permissible exposure limits, and work practice controls. All employers in Mississippi are required to adhere to these rules, and failure to do so can not only lead to penalties from OSHA but also civil liability for any damages suffered by workers who are exposed to asbestos.

Q: How Much Asbestos Exposure Causes Mesothelioma?

A: Any amount of asbestos exposure can potentially cause mesothelioma. There is no safe amount of asbestos, as it is possible for a single incident of exposure to lead to the development of this disease. However, it is also possible for someone to be exposed and never develop mesothelioma. Ultimately, frequency and intensity of exposure are the greatest determining factors when it comes to whether a person is likely to develop mesothelioma.

Q: What Happens if Asbestos Is Found on a Jobsite?

A: If asbestos is found on a job site, work should stop immediately until the situation can be carefully reviewed. Only certain licensed contractors are allowed to perform asbestos removal, and very specific rules must be followed when conducting asbestos removal. For example, if a team working on a home renovation tears down a wall or ceiling and discovers asbestos, they must stop work until the hazard can be inspected by a certified contractor.

Q: Can I Sue for Asbestos Exposure at Work?

A: Yes, it is possible to sue for asbestos exposure at work if your exposure caused you to develop mesothelioma or other adverse health outcomes. If you were exposed at your current job, you could qualify to file a workers’ compensation claim, but recovery will be limited. If you have grounds to file a toxic exposure lawsuit, success with this case could yield a more substantial recovery. Consult an attorney after diagnosis to determine your most viable legal options.

Q: Should I Hire a Lawyer for an Asbestos Exposure Lawsuit?

A: Yes, it’s wise to hire a lawyer for an asbestos exposure lawsuit. You are not only more likely to succeed with your case with an attorney’s help, but you are also more likely to maximize any compensation you obtain. Your attorney can determine the full scope of the legal options available to you and guide you through your proceedings efficiently, reducing the time it takes for you to receive compensation.

The attorneys at Wallace & Graham have years of experience representing clients in all types of asbestos exposure cases. When employers fail to follow Mississippi asbestos regulations, they can be held liable for any harm suffered by their employees as a result. If you believe you have grounds for a case, contact Wallace & Graham today to schedule a free consultation with our team.