Oklahoma’s economy relies on industries such as oil and gas that are known for their asbestos use. The state is the fifth largest producer of oil and third in natural gas in the U.S. Sites recognized for asbestos contamination include the Hudson Refinery and the Oklahoma Refining Company.
The infamous W.R. Grace mine shipped asbestos to three Oklahoma cities between 1948 and 1993 (Oklahoma City, Duke, and Southard). Almost 400 residents of Oklahoma died from mesothelioma and asbestosis between 1999 and 2013. Deaths before this time are unknown as the government did not start tracking them until 1999.
Oklahoma’s manufacturing industry is responsible for over 151,000 jobs; it is also responsible for exposing many workers to asbestos.
Superfund Sites in Oklahoma
A “Superfund site” is a contaminated area that exists “nationally due to hazardous waste being dumped, left out in the open, or otherwise improperly managed. These sites include manufacturing facilities, processing plants, landfills and mining sites.”
The Hudson Refinery site in Cushing, Oklahoma, is an abandoned oil refinery that was active from 1922 to 1982. Hudson Refinery is on the EPA’s Superfund list because of friable asbestos and other hazards.
The Oklahoma Refining Company was placed on the Superfund list for several hazards, including asbestos.
Known Sites for Asbestos Exposure:
- Altus Air Force Base
- Beerbower Power Plant
- Conoco
- Gary-Williams Energy
- Hudson Refinery
- Oklahoma Refining Company
- Oklahoma Gas and Electric
- Sinclair Oil
- Sunoco
- Ultramar Diamond
- University of Oklahoma
- Tinker Air Force Base
Speak with an Oklahoma Asbestos Exposure Attorney About Your Options
It is important to recognize that you have legal rights after being exposed to asbestos at work or elsewhere. A skilled Oklahoma asbestos exposure lawyer could help you pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Call today to get started.
