The Legacy of National Gypsum: A Tale of Asbestos and Its Harrowing Consequences

911 Meso Info

911 Meso Info is a dedicated voice in the fight against mesothelioma, committed to raising awareness, providing reliable information, and empowering individuals affected by this rare disease. With a passion for advocacy, 911 Meso Info delivers insightful resources, up-to-date research, and practical tips to help patients and families navigate their mesothelioma journey. From treatment options and legal guidance to emotional support and prevention strategies, 911 Meso Info is your go-to source for comprehensive mesothelioma knowledge. Connect with us to stay informed and find strength in community. Follow 911 Meso Info for trusted advice and support, and join us in spreading awareness for a brighter tomorrow.

News Summary

National Gypsum’s history of asbestos use led to tragic health consequences and significant legal battles. This tale serves as a cautionary reminder of corporate negligence.

The Legacy of National Gypsum: A Tale of Asbestos and Its Harrowing Consequences

National Gypsum, once a titan in the building materials industry, was one of the largest manufacturers of asbestos products during the 20th century. Founded in 1925, this company began incorporating asbestos into its products in 1933, notably advertising their flagship item, Gold Bond, with a $5,000 “gold bond” guarantee—claiming it to be superior to competing products. The company’s asbestos-laden offerings were marketed under three major brands: Gold Bond, ProForm, and PermaBase. These materials included over 30 different products, leading to widespread use and, regrettably, exposure among both workers and consumers.

The Asbestos Crisis Unfolds

After decades of using hazardous asbestos fibers in manufacturing, National Gypsum faced a wave of legal challenges. By 1985, the company was dealing with approximately 4,500 lawsuits related to the severe health consequences of asbestos exposure. The primary culprits? Mesothelioma—a deadly cancer linked directly to asbestos—as well as lung cancer and asbestosis. Workers in factories producing these products faced a significantly elevated risk due to airborne asbestos fibers, while those in construction who handled or disturbed these materials were also vulnerable.

The risks were not confined solely to workers. Secondary exposure from dust brought home on clothing or skin meant that family members were also susceptible to the dangers of asbestos. Research continued to confirm that the construction sector had the highest rates of exposure, with drywall workers at particular risk before the mid-1970s.

National Gypsum’s Downfall

In 1990, amid mounting litigation costs that exceeded $1 billion, National Gypsum declared bankruptcy due to its extensive liabilities associated with asbestos claims. Consequently, all pending lawsuits were delayed as the company worked to navigate its financial woes. The following years were marked by the establishment of a $347 million trust fund in 2003 to manage future asbestos-related claims, enabling the company to process ongoing lawsuits in a systematic manner.

In 1993, the formation of the National Gypsum Corporation Settlement Trust allowed for lingering claims to be resolved, although by 1997, the initial trust was deemed inadequate to cover the growing number of claims following further investigations into the medical effects of asbestos. This led to National Gypsum’s second bankruptcy filing in 2002, resulting in the creation of an additional trust with the financial resources necessary to address future claims adequately.

Claims and Compensation for Victims

The current trust provides a payout rate of around 41% of the claimed amount—which, compared to other asbestos trusts, is considered relatively generous. Claimants who have suffered from mesothelioma or related conditions as a result of exposure to National Gypsum’s products can pursue compensation through specialized legal representation. Timeliness in filing claims is paramount, as each trust typically has strict criteria and deadlines. Advocates from various organizations are available to assist and guide affected individuals and their families in navigating these legal waters.

Over the years, approximately 60 trusts have been established, amounting to an astonishing total of $30 billion in funds available for victims of asbestos-related diseases. So far, these trusts have paid out more than $17 billion, with average payouts ranging from $300,000 to $400,000, and in some instances, exceeding $750,000. Victims are encouraged to investigate their exposure history, as they could claim against multiple asbestos trusts.

Moving Forward: The Impact of National Gypsum’s Actions

The legacy of National Gypsum serves as a cautionary tale regarding the widespread use of asbestos in construction and manufacturing. With advances in medical research and increased awareness of the health hazards related to asbestos exposure, such companies face heightened scrutiny and liability. Today, the National Gypsum Company stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic consequences that can unfold when businesses prioritize profit over consumer safety.

For those affected by asbestos exposure, resources are available to pursue justice and compensation, allowing them to seek support through legal avenues designed specifically to assist victims of this ongoing crisis.