Foundry Workers: Asbestos/Silica Claims, Defendants Belong in One Suit

LOS ANGELES - Former foundry workers who allege that they suffered lung injuries as a result of exposure to silica, asbestos and aluminum dust have responded to allegations of improper joinder, arguing that the alleged injuries all occurred as a result of exposure at the same foundry. Beltran v. J.R. Simplot Co., et al., No. BC356257 (Calif. Super. Ct., Los Angeles Cty.).

In an Oct. 20 response to demurrers filed by numerous defendants, the former Pacific Southern Foundry workers contend that they are properly joined to the suit by virtue of their common workplace and similar injuries and that their …