Armstrong World Industries’ Asbestos History

Armstrong World Industries | Mesothelioma We Can Help

In 1860, Thomas M. Armstrong and John D. Glass established Armstrong World Industries in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, primarily focusing on cork bottle stopper manufacturing. By the late 19th century, the company emerged as a global leader in cork production.

Expanding its operations, Armstrong diversified into producing insulation, flooring, and ceiling materials. During this period, the utilization of asbestos became prevalent due to its affordability and advantageous properties. The company’s expansion continued with the establishment of a linoleum factory in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, followed by further expansions into other states.

Throughout World War I and the Great Depression, Armstrong persevered and contributed to wartime efforts, coinciding with the peak of asbestos usage. Asbestos found extensive application across industries, including military usage.

Despite ongoing expansion and acquisitions, Armstrong’s involvement in asbestos-related legal issues emerged in the 1990s, ultimately leading to bankruptcy in 2006 due to significant asbestos liabilities.

Armstrong World Industries’ Asbestos-Containing Offerings

While Armstrong initially produced asbestos-free cork stoppers, it transitioned to manufacturing asbestos-containing products from 1909 until the mid-1980s. These products encompassed floor tiles, ceiling materials, lining felt, and sheet vinyl backing, integrating asbestos to enhance their resistance to fire, chemicals, and heat.

Armstrong’s asbestos products reached widespread usage across various states and territories, reflecting their prevalent presence in construction and renovation projects during the 20th century.

Armstrong World Industries and Occupational Asbestos Exposure

Throughout its history, Armstrong maintained a sizable workforce, with thousands of employees across its production facilities. Employees working during the asbestos era, as well as contractors handling these materials, faced potential occupational asbestos exposure. Additionally, individuals who interacted with Armstrong’s products, including construction workers and homeowners, were at risk of exposure.

The extensive range of affected occupations highlights the broad impact of Armstrong’s asbestos usage on workers across different industries and professions.

Litigation Challenges Faced by Armstrong World Industries

In the 1990s, Armstrong became entangled in asbestos-related litigation, initially mitigated through insurance coverage. However, escalating costs led to Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2000, driven by a substantial number of personal injury lawsuits.

Subsequently, Armstrong initiated a restructuring process and established a billion-dollar asbestos trust fund in 2002, predominantly funded through shares. Operational since 2006, this trust has processed numerous claims and disbursed substantial compensation to asbestos victims.

The trajectory of Armstrong World Industries illustrates the complex intersection of industrial growth, product development, and legal repercussions associated with asbestos utilization. The enduring impact of asbestos-related diseases underscores the importance of continued awareness, advocacy, and support for affected individuals and communities.