NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY POE HALL TOXICITY LAWSUITS
Poe Hall PCB Contamination: Seeking Justice for Affected Students
DeMent, Askew, Johnson & Marshall has a proud history of advocating for victims in complex and mass tort cases. Our practice includes representation for individuals affected by the PCB contamination in Poe Hall at North Carolina State University. This page provides an overview of the history of this contamination, the likely number of affected students, and a discussion of gross negligence as it relates to this case.
What Are Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)?
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of highly carcinogenic chemicals that were once widely used in various industrial applications due to their versatility and stability. Despite being banned in 1979 because of their toxic nature, PCBs can still be found in buildings and devices constructed before the ban. Their presence poses significant health risks, including cancers, weakened immune systems, reproductive issues, neurological effects, and endocrine disruptions.
Health Risks of PCB Exposure
Long-term exposure to PCBs has been linked to a variety of serious health conditions, such as:
- Cancers: Including liver cancer, breast cancer, malignant melanoma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Weakened Immune Systems: Increasing susceptibility to diseases like the Epstein-Barr virus and heart disease.
- Reproductive Issues: Such as reduced conception rates, low birth weight in infants, and reduced sperm count.
- Neurological Effects: Including memory problems, learning disabilities, and vision issues.
- Endocrine Effects: Disrupting thyroid hormones that regulate weight and metabolism.
The Poe Hall Cancer Cluster
More than 100 cases of cancer have been reported among people who spent time in Poe Hall. This phenomenon, known as a “cancer cluster,” occurs when multiple cancer cases are reported within a small geographic area over a limited time. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is currently testing the building for cancer-causing materials following the discovery of elevated PCB levels.
Timeline of Key Events Surrounding Poe Hall
1971: Poe Hall was constructed using materials containing PCBs.
2018: During routine inspections, initial concerns about potential PCB contamination in Poe Hall were raised. Preliminary tests did not indicate immediate danger, but further investigation was recommended.
September 2023: The North Carolina Department of Labor receives a complaint about health and safety violations at Poe Hall.
October 2023: NC State contacts the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services about concerns regarding breast cancer cases among people who spent time in Poe Hall. NC State hires EMSL Analytical to test the building.
November 2023: EMSL Analytical reports PCB levels in Poe Hall up to 38 times higher than the safe threshold. Chancellor Randy Woodson announces the building’s closure.
February 8, 2024: Initial testing results for PCBs in the HVAC system of Poe Hall are released, showing safe levels while the HVAC system is off. Local media reports over 100 cancer cases among individuals exposed to Poe Hall.
February 9, 2024: NC State faculty passes a “no confidence” vote in the university’s chancellor and vice chancellor due to their handling of the Poe Hall cancer cluster.
Gross Negligence and Poe Hall
Gross negligence is a legal concept that involves a severe degree of carelessness that shows a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of others. In the case of Poe Hall, the continued presence of PCBs in a building constructed decades after the harmful effects of these chemicals were known could be considered gross negligence. The university’s delayed response and failure to ensure a safe environment for students and staff further underscore this negligence.
Filing a Lawsuit for PCB Exposure at Poe Hall
If you contracted cancer or another debilitating disease after spending time in Poe Hall at NC State University, you might be entitled to compensation. Key questions to determine eligibility include:
- Did you attend a class or work in Poe Hall?
- Have you experienced significant health problems since spending time there?
- Have your children suffered health issues since you spent time in Poe Hall?
Compensation for PCB Exposure
Victims of PCB exposure at Poe Hall may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Current and future medical bills
- Physical and mental pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of earning capacity
- Wrongful death damages
Potential State vs. Federal Jurisdiction in Poe Hall PCB Lawsuits
Determining whether lawsuits related to PCB exposure in Poe Hall will be filed at the state or federal level depends on several factors, including the residence of the affected students. For students from other states who attended and lived in Poe Hall during the period of contamination, the jurisdiction of their lawsuit could vary. Typically, such cases might be filed in North Carolina state courts because the alleged exposure and negligence occurred within the state. However, if the plaintiffs are from different states, there could be grounds for federal jurisdiction, particularly if the case involves claims that cross state lines or invoke federal environmental laws. The complexity of multi-state litigation may necessitate coordination between state and federal courts to ensure comprehensive legal proceedings. DeMent, Askew, Johnson & Marshall is adept at handling both state and federal cases, providing experienced representation to navigate the intricacies of jurisdictional issues for out-of-state plaintiffs affected by the PCB contamination in Poe Hall.
Local Counsel Services
Our firm offers local counsel services to attorneys and their clients from other states involved who may need to be involved in the Poe Hall PCB contamination litigation. Our extensive experience and deep understanding of the local legal landscape make us invaluable partners in navigating these complex cases.
Contact Us
DeMent, Askew, Johnson & Marshall is committed to fighting for justice for those affected by PCB exposure in Poe Hall and toxic water at Camp Lejeune. If you believe you have been harmed by PCB contamination at Poe Hall or toxic water at Camp Lejeune, contact us for a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation. Call us today at 1-866-576-0576 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation.
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IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
What are Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)?
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of highly carcinogenic chemicals that were widely used in industrial applications due to their stability and versatility. Although their production was banned in 1979, buildings constructed before then, like Poe Hall, may still contain PCBs.
What health risks are associated with PCB exposure?
Long-term exposure to PCBs is linked to various serious health effects, including cancers (such as liver, breast, and skin cancer), weakened immune systems, reproductive issues, neurological defects, and endocrine disruptions.
What is the Poe Hall cancer cluster?
A cancer cluster occurs when a higher-than-expected number of cancer cases are reported in a specific geographic area over a limited time. In Poe Hall, over 100 cases of cancer have been reported among individuals who spent time in the building, leading to its classification as a cancer cluster.
What led to the discovery of PCBs in Poe Hall?
Concerns about indoor air quality during a renovation project prompted NC State University to initiate an environmental assessment. Testing in October and November 2023 revealed PCB levels in Poe Hall up to 38 times higher than what is considered safe, leading to the building’s closure.
Who is eligible to file a lawsuit related to Poe Hall PCB exposure?
Individuals who attended classes, worked, or spent significant time in Poe Hall and have since developed significant health problems, including cancer, may be eligible to file a lawsuit. This includes both current and former students and staff.
What kind of compensation might be available to victims of PCB exposure in Poe Hall?
Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills (current and future), physical and mental pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of earning capacity, and wrongful death damages.
How does gross negligence relate to the Poe Hall litigation?
Gross negligence involves a severe degree of carelessness that shows a blatant disregard for the safety of others. In the Poe Hall case, the university's delayed response to known hazards and failure to maintain a safe environment for students and staff could be considered gross negligence.
What steps should I take if I believe I’ve been affected by PCB exposure in Poe Hall?
If you believe you’ve been affected by PCB exposure, it is important to seek medical attention and document your health issues. Then, contact a qualified attorney experienced in mass tort litigation to evaluate your case and discuss your legal options.
How can DeMent Askew Johnson & Marshall assist with Poe Hall PCB exposure cases?
Our firm offers comprehensive legal representation for individuals affected by PCB exposure at Poe Hall. We provide expert legal advice, help gather necessary documentation, and advocate for your rights to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Is there a time limit for filing a claim related to PCB exposure in Poe Hall?
Yes, there are statutes of limitations that apply to filing claims. It is crucial to act quickly to ensure your legal rights are protected. Contact our firm as soon as possible to discuss your case and determine the appropriate steps to take.
Can out-of-state students file a lawsuit for PCB exposure in Poe Hall?
Yes, out-of-state students who attended NC State and spent time in Poe Hall can file a lawsuit. The jurisdiction of the lawsuit will depend on various factors, including the location of the plaintiffs and the specifics of the case. Our firm can help navigate these jurisdictional issues.