Most Of Rialto Square Theatre Building Closed Over Asbestos Concerns

Personal Injury - September 23, 2024

Most of Rialto Square Theatre Building In Joliet Closed To Remove Asbestos After Concerns From The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

Most Of Rialto Square Theatre Building Closed Over Asbestos Concerns

JOLIET, ILLINOIS (September 23, 2024) – Nearly all of the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet has been closed in order to remove asbestos.

Initially, the theater was closed last month in order to remove asbestos. But the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency was concerned that some of the asbestos was not properly removed.

A representative for the Rialto Square Theatre said that they are hoping to reopen on September 18. The theater is frequently used for performances and weddings.

It remains unclear how the presence of asbestos at the Rialto Square Theatre was discovered.

Liability For Injuries Caused By Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber. For many years, it was used as an insulating material. Long-term exposure to asbestos may lead to serious health problems. According to the National Cancer Institute, “Exposure to asbestos causes most mesotheliomas (a relatively rare cancer of the thin membranes that line the chest and abdomen); it can also cause cancers of the lung, larynx, and ovary.” There are several ways that a person may be exposed to asbestos.

  • People may become exposed to asbestos through their occupation. Construction workers and manufacturers are particularly at risk if they are around asbestos.
  • People may become exposed to asbestos through secondary exposure. For example, asbestos can imbed itself into a person’s hair and clothes.
  • A major source of asbestos exposure occurs during the renovation or demolition of buildings containing asbestos.

Depending on the facts of any case, there could be numerous sources of liability if someone becomes ill after being exposed to asbestos. Pursuant to Illinois Civil Code (740 ILCS 130/1), property owners must maintain their property in a reasonably safe condition. When a property owner has actual or constructive notice of a dangerous condition with their property, they must take action. It is important that certain steps are taken after exposure to asbestos.

  • Victims should shower and change their clothes.
  • Victims should seek medical attention as early as possible.
  • Victims should seek to determine the source of the exposure.
  • Victims should consult with a personal injury attorney.

Many of the health implications from asbestos exposure may not manifest for significant periods of time. This is particularly true with respect to most mesotheliomas. Indeed, many people may not even realize that they have been exposed to asbestos until many years or decades later. It is important for victims of asbestos exposure to understand that they do have rights. They are able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.

Investigating Joliet Asbestos Exposure

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates were very concerned to hear about the asbestos at Rialto Square Theatre. It is our sincere hope that building owners will do everything in their power to ensure that it is thoroughly removed so that there is not a danger to the public. Long-term exposure to asbestos can be incredibly dangerous.

Have you or someone that you care about been exposed to asbestos? You may have legal recourse. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here for you. We care deeply that victims of asbestos exposure are aware of their rights. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.