Kentucky Miner Blames 3M, Mine Safety Respirators for Silicosis

PIKEVILLE, Ky. — A former coal worker and mine foreman alleges in a recent complaint that his silicosis and related lung problems can be blamed on respirators that failed to prevent exposure to dust. Adams v. 3M Co., et al., No. 7:12-cv-00061-ART (E.D. Ky.).

Donnie Adams filed the lawsuit against 3M Company and Mine Safety Appliances June 25, asserting exposures in Kentucky mines between 1967 and 1981.

Adams contends that his claims are not barred by any statute of limitations because his disease has a latency period recognized under Kentucky law, and because any limitations period would be tolled because …