At the OnderLaw environmental attorneys, our California environmental lawyers are dedicated to helping workers and communities exposed to hazardous chemicals understand the risks associated with their exposure. The Alark Hard Chrome Superfund site in California is a perfect example of how dangerous some environmental sites can be. Our environmental attorneys in California are here to help workers and communities who have been adversely impacted by the Alark Hard Chrome Superfund site.
The Alark Hard Chrome Site is located in Paramount, California, and was once a bustling industrial hub. The site was primarily used for electroplating operations, with Alark Industries Inc. being the main operator. However, with the passing of time, the site has been abandoned and forgotten, leaving behind a trail of environmental devastation.
The site was first designated as a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2000, due to the high levels of contamination. The contamination of the site began in the 1970s when companies operating there released harmful chemicals into the surrounding environment. The main chemicals used at the site include hexavalent chromium, nickel, and other heavy metals.
For many years, workers at the site were exposed to these chemicals, which were known to be highly toxic. These workers were often not provided with proper protective gear, putting them at an increased risk of developing cancer and other serious health conditions. As the years went on, the toxic chemicals leached into the groundwater, causing further damage to the environment and the surrounding communities.
Today, the site continues to pose a threat to the health and well-being of residents living nearby. It remains one of the most toxic sites in the United States, and as such, a number of toxic tort lawsuits are still being filed to seek justice for those who have been harmed by the contamination.
The health effects associated with the Alark Hard Chrome Superfund site are both significant and alarming. The hazardous substances present on the site pose a potential threat to workers, nearby residents, and the environment. Workers who have been exposed to the site’s contaminants are at risk of developing various health conditions.
The chemicals found at the Alark Hard Chrome Superfund site include chromium, nickel, and trichloroethylene (TCE). Exposure to these toxic substances can cause numerous adverse health effects. For instance, exposure to hexavalent chromium, which is present in the soil, water, and air at the site, can lead to respiratory problems, skin rashes, and lung cancer. Workers who were directly exposed to chromium at the site may also develop occupational asthma, nasal septum perforation, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Similarly, long-term exposure to nickel, which is present in the groundwater and soil, can cause skin allergies and asthma. Inhalation of TCE, which is used as a solvent at the site, can lead to dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Prolonged exposure to TCE can also cause damage to the liver and kidneys, and it is linked to certain types of cancers, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
The health risks associated with the Alark Hard Chrome Superfund site extend beyond workers at the site. Nearby communities that rely on the groundwater, which is contaminated with hazardous substances, are also at risk.
The presence of these contaminants in the environment may result in the contamination of the food chain and water sources. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to these contaminants, as they can lead to developmental issues and birth defects.
When negligence from corporations leads to severe consequences for those in and around the area, we want to hold those corporations accountable. At OnderLaw, our environmental attorneys in California are ready to do just that. With decades of experience in environmental law, our attorneys know what it takes to navigate cases like these and we can make it as easy as possible for affected plaintiffs.
The Alark Hard Chrome Superfund Site has been the cause of significant harm to the workers and residents in the surrounding communities due to the chemicals found on site. If you or someone you know has been affected by this site, it is important to understand your legal options.
One possible legal avenue is toxic tort litigation. A toxic tort is a civil claim brought against a defendant for harm caused by exposure to a dangerous substance. Toxic torts are typically brought by individuals who have been exposed to harmful chemicals and suffered physical harm or economic loss as a result.
If you have developed a disease, such as cancer, due to exposure to the chemicals found at the Alark Hard Chrome Site, you may be eligible to file a toxic tort lawsuit. The lawsuit could be brought against the site owner or operators, or any other parties that may have contributed to the contamination of the site.
Another legal option for those affected by the Alark Hard Chrome Superfund Site would be a class action lawsuit. A class action lawsuit is a legal action brought by a group of people who have suffered similar harm or injuries. In this case, a class action lawsuit could be filed on behalf of workers and residents in the surrounding communities who have suffered health effects due to exposure to the chemicals found at the site.
The benefits of a class action lawsuit are that it can bring together a large group of people who may have suffered harm from the same source, allowing them to share the cost of legal fees and potentially increasing the chances of a successful outcome.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the Alark Hard Chrome Superfund Site, it is important to seek legal advice to understand your options and determine the best course of action for your individual situation. If you feel you or your community may have been impacted by this site, contact our skilled environmental attorneys today for a free consultation.
