The Deepwater Horizon oil rig disaster had profound effects on human life and the environment, some of which continue to this day. Thousands of people involved in the cleanup effort now suffer from effects like burning lungs and blistered skin.
Did Corexit Cause Respiratory Illness in Cleanup Crew Members?
A new study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham points the finger for these injuries at Corexit EC9500A, a chemical dispersant poured onto the oil slicks in order to break down the petroleum. Almost two million gallons of the dispersant were utilized in the cleanup, and now researchers are noticing that Corexit can cause serious damage to epithelial cells in the lungs of those exposed to it. Cell detachment, edema, cell diameter contraction and increased permeability have all been linked to Corexit inhalation. The symptoms of these issues included persistent coughs, shortness of breath and production of sputum.
The Associated Press believes that up to 200,000 people could potentially become involved in a medical settlement against BP, the company responsible for the oil spill.
BP has denied that response workers and aquatic life were exposed to harmful levels of Corexit. The company is still involved in an ongoing federal lawsuit in which they are facing a potential $13.7 billion penalty under the Clean Water Act. Our firm alone has filed over 3,000 claims on behalf of our clients against BP for this massive environmental disaster.
If you were involved in the BP oil spill cleanup and have suffered respiratory effects that resemble the symptoms of Corexit exposure, it would be wise to contact an attorney engaged in BP oil spill litigation.
Farrell & Patel – Birth Injury Law Firm
Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2015/04/07/study-suggests-chemical-used-in-bp-oil-spill-cleanup-capable-of-injuring-people-and-wildlife/
