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DAWN SMITH | Mass Torts
Is My Home Insulation Making Me Sick?
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) blend. e U.S. Environmental Pro- insulation has become a popu- tection Agency (EPA) has found that lar “green” solution in homes these chemicals have toxic properties across the United States, and around that are harmful to humans at certain
Prolonged or high-dose exposure to the toxins found in SPF, including isocyanates, may result in a myriad of health problems. Severe breath-
the world. It is comparatively cost e ective, energy e cient, and those who choose it are eligible for federal energy tax credits. Because of claims by SPF manufacturers and installation companies, many homeowners have selected SPF over standard insulation in thousands of homes—not only be- cause of the economic bene ts, but to improve indoor air quality. One man- ufacture has claimed “insulation is another major building product that has a long-term e ect on the air you breathe. Environmentally-safe [SPF] will allow you to insulate your home or building without the harmful emis- sions, which improves the indoor air quality.”
Unfortunately, the opposite has been true for many homeowners. SPF insulation has not improved air qual- ity in their homes. Instead, toxic ex- posure to spray foam insulation has caused serious health consequences for those who hoped to have safer healthier homes when they chose spray foam insulation.
Spray Polyurethane Foam Toxins And Harmful O -Gassing
SPF insulation is formed with a heat-releasing chemical reaction during the application process. e composition includes approximate equal parts of an “A-side,” isocyanate groups, typically methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and polymeric MDI, and a “B-side,” a poly resin
levels.
e application process involves
a spray gun where the A-side and B- side are mixed together, and within a few minutes the combined chemicals form a tack-free foam. A er applica- tion, homes with SPF typically have an odor, which has been described as a “musty” or “chemical smell.” Some have reported a “ shy smell.” On cer- tain occasions the odor dissipates and at other times intensi es. For exam- ple, homeowners have reported the odor increases as temperatures rise and during the hottest months of the year.
ese odors, or “o -gassing” can be the result of many variables. In- stallation errors are frequent due to the complex application process and necessary environmental controls, which must occur to prevent harmful chemical emissions during and a er the SPF application process. Certain experts have concluded that proper installation is di cult, if not impos- sible to achieve in residential homes, based upon a wide range of variables in the eld such as temperature, mois- ture, and untrained or under trained installation workers. Manufacturers have known about this for years but have done little to warn or protect the public as spray foam insulation sales increase across the country.
Injuries From Exposure To Spray Polyurethane Foam
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ing problems and skin reactions have been reported, as well as neurologi- cal symptoms such as memory loss. SPF has been found to cause respira- tory illness, asthma, lung damage, and even respiratory sensitization.
Sensitization is an allergic reaction where an individual becomes more responsive to chemical exposure at progressively lower concentrations, even below concentrations consid- ered safe for most people. A hyper- reactive response, such as an asthma attack, to even minimal concentra- tion, may develop in sensitized indi- viduals and can be life-threatening. Lung damage and sensitization may be permanent. us, those who be- come sensitized may be unable to reside in their homes or even come into contact with products or materi- als that contain polymeric isocyanates without having a severe reaction. Re- moval of SPF may provide little relief. Removal or remediation has in some cases intensi ed the original harmful impact of the spray foam insulation.
In Texas and other states, home- owners my proceed against the manu- factures and installers of these prod- ucts based upon breach of contract, negligence, strict products liability and for deceptive
trade practices related to the sale and installation of the product.
Dawn Smith is licensed in California and Texas and is the managing partner of Smith Clinesmith in Dallas, Texas. She handles national cases involving toxic exposures and dangerous products. As a child, Dawn’s family inspired her to help others, and a school trip to the supreme court directed her to a career in law. Dawn immediately began trying cases after law school and achieved over $60 million in verdicts and settlements for her clients. After moving to Texas and managing a docket of 500 asbestos lawsuits, Dawn’s trial team achieved the largest single-plaintiff asbestos verdict in history, $322 million. Reach Dawn @ 214.953.1900 or [email protected].
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