Asbestos Exposure at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California (1955-1982)

U.S. Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale, California, has a documented history of using asbestos-containing materials since 1955. These include fireproofing materials and sprays, sprayed or trowled acoustic/decorative plasters and textures, joint compounds, insulating cements, adhesives and mastics . Employees at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 before 1982 may be at risk for asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

U.S. Air Force Plant 42 Asbestos Facts
  • Asbestos Exposure Years

    Asbestos Exposure: 1955 to 1982

  • Asbestos Exposure Location

    Location: Palmdale, CA

  • Asbestos Trust Funds

    Asbestos Trust Funds: 1

  • Available Claims & Settlements

    Available Trust Funds Claims: YES

ASBESTOS EXPOSURE CALCULATOR Green Check Eligibility
U.S. Air Force Plant 42 Asbestos Exposure in Palmdale, CACalifornia Asbestos Exposure
Compensation may be available for former U.S. Air Force Plant 42 employees exposed to asbestos from 1955 to 1982 and later diagnosed with an asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos Products Used at U.S. Air Force Plant 42

For over 28 years, U.S. Air Force Plant 42 used asbestos in numerous materials and products. According to trust fund records, some of the known asbestos-containing products include:

W.R. Grace Asbestos Products Linked to U.S. Air Force Plant 42 Exposure

Note: This list may not be comprehensive. Asbestos products used at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 likely varied over the years.


High-Risk Jobs Exposed to Asbestos at U.S. Air Force Plant 42

Occupations with a high risk of asbestos exposure at U.S. Air Force Plant 42:

Note: This list is based on trust fund claim data and may not represent every high-risk position.


U.S. Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale, CA Asbestos Facts

Health Risks from Asbestos Exposure at U.S. Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale, CA

Employees at U.S. Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale, CA were directly exposed to airborne asbestos fibers, especially between 1955 and 1982, when asbestos use peaked. These microscopic fibers, when inhaled, lodge permanently in lung tissues, causing inflammation, scarring, and severe illnesses, including:

  • Mesothelioma
  • Lung Cancer
  • Asbestosis
  • Pleural Diseases

Secondary (Take-Home) Asbestos Exposure

Exposure wasn’t limited to U.S. Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale, CA workers alone. Employees often unknowingly carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair, or tools, causing secondary exposure among family members. Diseases linked to secondary exposure often manifest decades later, significantly impacting families long after initial exposure occurred.


Mesothelioma Facts


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which diseases qualify for compensation due to U.S. Air Force Plant 42 asbestos exposure?

Mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and certain pleural conditions typically qualify if connected directly to exposure at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 between 1955 and 1982. Criteria vary by trust fund.

Can family members file claims for secondary exposure?

Yes. Family members affected by secondary (take-home) asbestos exposure from workers at U.S. Air Force Plant 42 are eligible to file claims if diagnosed with related diseases.

Can claims be filed for deceased loved ones?

Yes. You may file wrongful death claims if a family member passed away from an asbestos-related illness linked to U.S. Air Force Plant 42. Specific eligibility and processes depend on state laws and trust fund guidelines. Remember, wrongful death claims have unique deadlines.

What’s the difference between a trust fund claim and a lawsuit?

Asbestos trust fund claims offer predetermined compensation from bankrupt asbestos companies, while lawsuits target companies still operating. Lawsuits can yield higher settlements but typically take longer to resolve. Depending on your situation, you may file either or both.

What’s the deadline for filing asbestos claims related to U.S. Air Force Plant 42?

Deadlines (statutes of limitations) vary by state and claim type. In California, personal injury and wrongful death claims typically have a 1-year filing period from diagnosis or death. Verify deadlines for your specific case promptly.

Sources:

  1. Asbestos Claims Management W.R. Grace & Co. Trust Fund