01. History of Asbestos Use
Chevron and Texaco History of Asbestos Use
Chevron Corporation is a major energy company focused on oil and gasoline. Founded in 1879, it operates in more than 180 countries. Many oil refineries and petroleum companies like Chevron used asbestos products. Most did not manufacture asbestos materials, but Chevron did.
Chevron and Texaco have been affiliated since 1936. That year, they formed an international petroleum brand called Caltex. Chevron and Texaco merged in October 2001. Texaco remains a subsidiary of Chevron and is still in operation.
Both companies used asbestos in their oil refineries and tankers. The mineral was often used to insulate pipes, reinforce concrete and seal gaskets because of its strength and resistance to heat.
This widespread use may have exposed Chevron and Texaco workers to asbestos fibers. Any exposure can be harmful and may lead to asbestos illnesses like mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Resources for Mesothelioma Patients
02. Asbestos Products
Chevron and Texaco Asbestos Products
Chevron manufactured and used asbestos products. From 1926 to 1984, Chevron U.S.A. Inc., a Chevron subsidiary, produced asbestos cement materials. Both Chevron and Texaco used asbestos in their oil tankers and refineries.
Some of the asbestos products Chevron manufactured include:
Many oil refineries were built with or protected by asbestos-containing materials, such as:
- Ceiling and floor tiles
- Concrete
- Drywall
- Fireproofing materials
- Gasket seals
- Insulation
- Mastics
- Packing
- Roofing
- Valves
Chevron and Texaco facilities with known asbestos exposure operated in the following cities:
- El Dorado, Kansas
- El Segundo, California
- Pascagoula, Mississippi
- Perth Amboy, New Jersey
During the middle of the 20th century, studies began to link exposure to asbestos-related diseases. In response, government agencies introduced regulations to limit the mineral’s use. Like many companies, Chevron and Texaco phased out asbestos use as restrictions increased and lawsuits from affected workers mounted.
03. Occupational Exposure
Chevron and Texaco and Occupational Exposure
The oil industry has long used asbestos in various applications, subjecting workers to occupational exposure. Major oil companies like Chevron and Texaco relied on asbestos materials in their refineries. The mineral was present in cement, gaskets, insulation and sealants. Their extensive use of asbestos compromised the safety of their workforce.
Chevron and Texaco employed workers in various roles, including machinists and pipefitters. Many didn’t know they were exposed to asbestos dust and fibers, which could become airborne during maintenance or repairs. Those who worked with asbestos-containing materials have a higher risk of developing health issues like mesothelioma.
For years, many workers did not receive proper protective equipment or training on asbestos hazards. Some were unaware of the mineral’s dangers. Others may have been exposed despite safety measures. Over time, regulators introduced rules and standards to limit asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, many workers had already been affected.
04. Asbestos Lawsuits
Asbestos Lawsuits Against Chevron and Texaco
Public records show that Chevron and Texaco have been named in many asbestos lawsuits going back decades. Affected workers have hired law firms experienced in asbestos cases to pursue claims against these companies. Several lawsuits against Chevron and Texaco have led to verdicts and settlements in favor of asbestos victims.
Here are a few examples of workers who sued Chevron and received settlements:
- $3,241,241 for a 67-year-old inspector and plant worker
- $3,069,610 for a 77-year-old Navy veteran
- $2,116,170 for an 81-year-old boilermaker and insulator
- $1,482,168 for an 84-year-old laborer and Air Force veteran
- $1,151,215 for a 58-year-old Marine veteran and iron worker
Here are some examples of workers who filed lawsuits against Texaco and got a settlement:
- $2,469,462 for an 82-year-old Navy veteran
- $824,208 for an 82-year-old shipyard worker and welder
- $720,448 for a 70-year-old plumber
- $550,702 for a 74-year-old shipyard worker
Employees of Chevron and Texaco who believe they were exposed to asbestos on the job may seek legal advice to understand their options for compensation. An attorney specializing in mesothelioma cases can assist with filing claims and managing asbestos lawsuits.
