Asbestos Exposure at American Cyanamid in Willow Island, WV

The history of chemical manufacturing in West Virginia includes facilities like American Cyanamid in Willow Island, which played a significant role in the local economy—but also left behind a toxic legacy. Workers at this site, especially those involved in production, maintenance, or insulation, faced regular asbestos exposure at American Cyanamid due to the widespread use of asbestos in piping, insulation, and equipment housing.

Asbestos-containing materials were common in high-heat chemical plants. Inhaling these microscopic fibers could cause lasting harm, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Even decades later, those who worked at the Willow Island plant—or their surviving families—may still be eligible for compensation.

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Known Hazards and Delayed Health Effects

American Cyanamid operated during a time when asbestos was used as a default insulator. Unfortunately, asbestos exposure at American Cyanamid wasn’t limited to direct contact. Dust from worksites often settled on workers’ clothes, hair, and gear. Without proper decontamination practices, this resulted in take-home asbestos exposure for spouses and children.

We’ve seen multiple instances where family members—many of whom never worked at Cyanamid—developed illnesses from laundering contaminated clothing. This legal theory, known as “take-home exposure,” is now a valid basis for compensation in West Virginia.

Read more about take-home exposure here.

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Legal Options for Asbestos Exposure at American Cyanamid Workers and Families

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos at the Willow Island American Cyanamid plant, it’s essential to act. West Virginia law allows claims long after retirement or even after death, depending on when diagnosis occurs. You may be eligible for compensation through settlements or existing asbestos bankruptcy trusts.

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Call for Help – You’re Not Alone

📞 Call now: 412-781-0525

You can also visit our dedicated asbestos intake page for more info and next steps.

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