A national trust fund for victims of asbestos-caused disease or death has been established, with money available for workers and others who have no other means of compensation, Utah officials say.
The Philadelphia-based trust fund, initiated by $5.5 million from the Manville Corp., is designed to compensate victims and surviving dependents of eligible claimants, said Stephen Hadley, chairman of the Utah Industrial Commission.In order to qualify for benefits, Hadley said, applicants must demonstrate they have been exposed to asbestos; that they suffered injury or death caused by that exposure; and that they are ineligible for workers' compensation-type benefits or other damages.
"The amount of benefits will depend on a variety of factors, including severity of the victim's injury, the victim's age, past and future wage losses, medical expenses and collateral recoveries," he said.
In addition to providing benefits, the trust is to sponsor research related to asbestos-caused disorders, as well as public awareness programs. Asbestos, which was commonly used for insulation in houses and public buildings, is known to cause cancer when its' thread-like fibers lodge in lungs.
Hadley said Utahns can get more information by calling the trust's toll-free number - 1-800-447-7590. Information on Utah asbestos-related injuries can be obtained from Kathleen Bertelsen at the state Industrial Commission.