KiwiRail’s new Chinese-build locomotives, which cost New Zealand $130 million, has been nothing but trouble since they first arrived in 2010. This time, the issue stems from the deadly contaminant asbestos, which has been found on at least forty freight locomotives. This could pose a potential risk to the lives of rail workers’ drivers and engineers.
It was recently discovered that toxic asbestos was used to help with soundproofing the locomotives. Found under flaking paint, the scare has prompted the disablement of forty locomotives. Although it doesn’t appear at this time that the deadly fiber became airborne, rail workers are still concerned for their health. Union officials are calling the problem appalling, saying workers will not drive the locomotives again until asbestos is removed.
As it turns out, New Zealand’s contract with Chinese manufacturers specifically stated it would not use asbestos in the trains. Now, KiwiRail’s older locomotives will have to suffice until New Zealand can clear the Chinese-made locomotives of asbestos.
Asbestos exposure can cause severe side effects, personal injuries and even death. If you or someone you know has suffered from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, and would like to find out whether you have a viable claim for personal injury damages or wrongful death damages, please call 617-787-3700 or email info@gilhoylaw.com, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to speak with an expert Massachusetts asbestos injury lawyer, Massachusetts personal injury attorney or Massachusetts wrongful death attorney.
Talk to an expert in personal injury law, call 617-787-3700, and get your free, confidential consultation with one of our highly skilled Boston, MA asbestos injury lawyers, Massachusetts personal injury attorneys or Boston, MA wrongful death lawyers.
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