After six workers employed by Engelhard Corporation (acquired by BASF in 2006) died from asbestos-related illnesses, the families of the workers claimed that not only was asbestos-laden talc responsible for their loved ones’ deaths, but the company “systematically concealed damaging evidence and manufactured documents to defeat claims that its talc contained cancer-causing asbestos.” These allegations were dismissed in 2012.
BASF has repeatedly denied that their talc products contained asbestos and that they hid any evidence, but a 2009 testimony from a former Engelhard research chemist could destroy their defense. The 2012 decision to dismiss the allegations against BASF was reversed on September 3, 2014, after a three-judge panel of the Philadelphia appeals court found that the claimants properly raised fraud claims at the time.
In 2009, the testifying chemist alleged that he had found asbestos in the company’s talc “many years ago.” This kind of deceit is the kind of injustice that no asbestos exposure victim needs to go through. Many victims of asbestos exposure have been justifiably compensated by those responsible for their asbestos-related diseases, but it is never an easy feat.
As a law firm dedicated to public justice, we are happy to see BASF being held accountable for their actions in the courtroom. If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease and are ready to fight for your rights, do not hesitate to contact Brayton Purcell, LLP, today.
