Worthington Pump and Machinery Corporation
In 1840, H.R. Worthington invented the first direct-acting steam pump and founded the Worthington Pump and Machinery Corporation soon thereafter. The company grew and gained international status by opening plants in Europe. Additionally, in the late 19th century, the company sold the British government pumps that supplied the Royal forces with water while they fought in Northern Africa. In 2000, the company became a subsidiary of the Flowserve Group.
Unfortunately, Worthington used asbestos to make the gaskets for its pumps and for asbestos chord, which was wound inside the pump. Thus, the employees of Worthington, laborers, pipe fitters and many others were placed in severe danger.
As early as the 1920s, physicians recognized that exposure to asbestos caused severe sickness when asbestosis was identified by British medical journals. At the same time, insurance companies in the United States and Canada stopped selling life insurance to asbestos workers. Moreover, safer substitutes for most asbestos uses were known as early as the 1930s. Nevertheless, Worthington chose to protect its substantial profit margins rather than discontinue use of the mineral.
If you or a family member has been injured by Worthington Co., Ltd., it is important that you contact The Gori Law Firm, immediately for more information on your rights.