Gold Bond Asbestos Paper
During more than three-quarters of the twentieth century, asbestos-containing products were in widespread use, especially in the construction industry. Builders deemed the mineral an essential part of the building process because of its ability to resist high temperatures and fire, therefore protecting the building in which it was used and those who lived or worked inside. In addition, asbestos was readily available and inexpensive to use, making it a very cost-efficient component in a number of different kinds of building products.
One of the major users of asbestos was the National Gypsum Company. Founded in 1925, this company manufactured light, flexible wallboard for use in residences or commercial buildings. They also manufactured a host of other asbestos-containing products including asbestos paper, which was used to wrap duct work and other equipment that was subject to high temperatures. National Gypsum’s most popular brand of this product was the Gold Bond brand. Gold Bond asbestos paper was used in buildings throughout the U.S. and in other countries as well. It was well-priced and was touted to be one of the most durable brands of asbestos paper on the market.
Many other Gold Bond products were sold by National Gypsum as well. All were deemed to be among the best available. However, what most consumers didn’t know was that the asbestos in Gold Bond brand products, including Gold Bond asbestos paper, was causing health problems for those who encountered it. Decades later, individuals who worked at the National Gypsum plant were developing asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, because of their exposure to Gold Bond asbestos paper. In addition, contractors, HVAC workers, and others who encountered this and other Gold Bond products also developed serious asbestos-related pulmonary diseases.
Records discovered from decades ago show that some company executives may have known about the dangers of asbestos and asbestos inhalation yet continued to use the toxic mineral in its products. Because the asbestos dangers were not revealed to employees and/or the general public, many people developed diseases they could have avoided had the truth been told.
By 1992, National Gypsum was in Chapter 11 bankruptcy and faced about 45,000 unresolved cases forged against them due to asbestos illnesses developed from exposure to their products. The suits were brought about both by employees and those who worked with Gold Bond asbestos paper and other Gold Bond products while on the job. Though the company emerged from bankruptcy in 1993, they were instructed by a federal judge to set up a trust fund that would compensate those who were injured by asbestos from National Gypsum products.
If you were exposed to Gold Bond asbestos paper and have developed mesothelioma due to that exposure, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. For more information, take a moment to order our free mesothelioma resource packet and learn about your legal rights as a victim of asbestos.
Last modified: September 23 2008.
