|
Hitoshi Taima, the man who accused the U.S. Navy and Japanese government of failing to protect Yokosuka Naval Base workers from asbestos exposure died May 19. He was 51. His death was just 10 days after he filed a lawsuit against the U.S.Navy and the Japanese government.
His lawyer said that Taima was suffering from mesothelioma, a malignant tumor of the mesothelium of the lungs and or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos particles in the air increases the risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
Taima had been exposed to deadly asbestos between 1977 and 1995 while repairing refrigerators and air conditioners for U.S. Naval Facilities Engineering Command at Yokosuka. Taima continued to work on base until last year.
Taima was the subject of a recently averted strike over his medical leave. It was headed up by Zenchuro Yokosuka. Zenchuro Yokosuka is a local group with 4000 base workers.
Taima’s funeral was held May 24.
Taima's lawsuit, which was filed on May 9, accuses that the Navy and the Japanese governments didn’t take any precautions for the safety of workers. Neither they provided the workers with the right protection equipment, the suit claims.
The lawsuit claims for a compensation of 86.5 million yen (approximately $733,000).
Hiroki Otogawa, the secretary general of Zenchuro said that Taima's family will continue to pursue the lawsuit. The first hearing will be held on June 25 at Yokohama District Court in Yokosuka.
|
 |
| Get a Free Info Pack |
|
|
