All traces of the Spreckels Sugar beet processing factory disappeared 27 years ago from Manteca.
Even so, former factory workers may have been exposed to asbestos-laced products used for decades at the plant before 1981.
That’s according to a law firm based in Alabama combing the nation for those that may have developed issues from asbestos exposure.
The sugar beet processing factory operated for 77 years on part of 362-acres where the Spreckels Park Business Park and adjoining 166-home Curran Grow are now located.
The actual factory and silo where asbestos may have been used was located where Target is today.
Neither employees nor management were aware of the asbestos risk.
Plant workers employed before 1981 diagnosed with various cancers could be entitled to special benefits based on Federal Bankruptcy Court actions.
Lung cancer, esophageal cancer, laryngeal cancer, pharyngeal cancer, stomach cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer, and mesothelioma are frequently caused by asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that in its natural state is harmless.
It becomes harmful when it is pulled apart or ground up into flexible fibers.
Then, when inhaled or swallowed, microscopic asbestos fibers may be permanently affixed to body tissue.
Over many years, these fibers may cause genetic changes that can lead to cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, “It can take from 10 to 40 years or more for asbestos-related cancers to appear.”
To compensate cancer victims and the families of deceased cancer victims, Federal Bankruptcy Courts have required asbestos manufacturers to set aside hundreds of millions of dollars in private trusts.
Through these trusts, cancer victims can receive money damages by the filing of timely, detailed, and accurate claims.
Norris Injury Lawyers has announced a specific initiative to assist Spreckels Sugar Manteca Plant employees in recovering money set aside for them in these asbestos trusts.
Cancer victims or the families of deceased victims who worked at the plant before 1981 may call 800-478-9578 for a free evaluation of their claim. Additional information is available at getnorris.com/asb.
