Kentucky Environmental Contamination: 10 Environmental Toxins You Should Know About
Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on September 12, 2016
Environmental contamination is a serious issue across the U.S. Toxic chemicals put people and animals at great risk for serious health problems. Environmental toxins are thought to contribute to serious increased rates of cancer, organ failure, developmental problems, and much more. In the State of Kentucky, the Energy and Environment Cabinet includes three departments that work together to protect and maintain proper air, land and water resources. This includes the: Department for Environmental Protection, the Department for Natural Resources and the Department for Energy Development and Independence.
Kentucky Environmental Contamination: An Example
Environmental contamination in Kentucky is caused by a variety of factors including industrial activity and transportation. Pollutants exist in many different aspects of our daily lives including: toxins in the air that we breathe, the water that we drink and the soil that surrounds our homes.
Most recently the Cooper and Friedman law firm was hired to represent dozens of individuals in Mt. Sterling Kentucky in a legal case involving toxic soil. A normal reading for arsenic levels in Kentucky’s soil is 8 or 9 parts per million per kilogram. Yet a recent reading on August 30, 2016 of this Montgomery county soil found arsenic levels in the hundreds and thousands.
The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked arsenic levels to many different health problems including different types of cancer, paralysis, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Understandably, this soil contamination is a serious concern to many people who live and work in this area.
10 Environmental Toxins You Should Know About
Environmental toxins pose a serious risk for people of every age. In the event that you or someone you love is the victim of environmental contamination in Kentucky or Indiana, the injury attorneys at Cooper and Friedman are here to help. Follow along for an overview of 10 environmental toxins that are linked to serious and even life-threatening health problems.
- Bisphenol A (BPA): This is sometimes used in manufacturing plastic for containers and bottles, in toys, detergents, liners of food cans, pesticides, and detergents. Brain and behavioral effects on young children and fetuses have been linked to this toxin. And it is also linked to hormonal problems including hormone dependent cancers and infertility.
- Carbon Monoxide: This colorless, odorless and tasteless gas is released when burning fuel. Cars, trucks, stoves, fireplaces and furnaces have been known to release this type of gas. Since your home can be the epicenter for carbon monoxide poisoning, it is important that you install a battery-operated detector and notice any changes in health.
- Fluoride: Most people are familiar with this chemical since it is typically found in toothpaste and tap water. Scientists predict that this could lead to cancer, but studies are ongoing.
- Lead: If your home was built before 1978, your doors, walls and windows could potentially contain lead. This poisonous chemical can combine with dust and infect your family. Some playgrounds can even have lead. It is important to check your home for this substance and safely remove any lead-based materials.
- Phthalates: In 2008, Congress passed legislation to ban six phthalates from toys and cosmetics. This chemical was used to add flexibility and resilience to things like raincoats, toys and other plastic materials.
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA): This additive allows fats and oils in food and cosmetics to last. This preservative can be found in gum and other snack foods.
- Perflourooctanoic Acid (PFOA): Most pots and pans use this chemical for nonstick or Teflon protection. This has been linked to hormonal and reproductive issues in animals.
- Percholrate: This toxin is linked to rocket fuel, which can find its way into soil, water and crops.
- Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DECA): Acting as a flame retardant, this toxin is sometimes found in electronics, furniture and some carpets. Though many companies have been urged by the government to stop using this chemical, many homes are still full of this toxin.
- Asbestos: This toxin receives a lot of media attention because it is found in most homes. Drywall, insulation and artificial fireplaces are made with this fibrous mineral that causes mesothelioma, which is a fatal cancer. While asbestos is not labeled on products and materials, most manufacturers have begun using other substitutes. At this time, asbestos is not banned by the U.S. government.
Perhaps the best advice for dealing with environmental toxins is to remain educated and informed. Read labels and try choosing materials that are free from common toxins. Know the type of soil found in your neighborhood and have your soil and water tested if possible. And if you have any questions about your environmental safety, seek out qualified help.
Finally, in the event that you need a law firm with experience in environmental contamination in Kentucky or Indiana, give the Cooper and Friedman law firm a call at 502-459-7555. We have an A+ BBB Rating and over 45 combined years of legal experience. We also offer free case consultations and we do not charge any fees unless we win for you. Learn more about the latest legal cases handled by Cooper & Friedman PLLC.