Williamson
Williamson v. Plant Insulation Co.
Opinion
Opinion
Werdegar, J.
Plant Insulation Company (Plant) appeals from a judgment against it and in favor of Evea Merle Williamson, individually and as special administrator of the estate of Wash Chapel Williamson, for $1,067,041.90 in damages arising from Wash Williamson’s exposure to asbestos-containing products distributed by Plant. We reverse in part and affirm in part.
Facts
Wash Williamson’s Employment, Exposure and Illnesses
Wash Williamson worked at the Chevron refinery in Richmond from 1947, the same year he married Evea Williamson, until 1982, first as a laborer, then as a helper, a boilermaker welder, and finally as a head mechanic and field construction supervisor. From 1947 until 1977, he was frequently exposed to airborne asbestos fibers from insulation used in the refinery, including products distributed and installed by Plant.
In 1977, Williamson was diagnosed with asbestosis and asbestos-related pleural disease. He underwent a lung operation and was off work for six months. Upon his return, he continued working as a head mechanic but avoided asbestos and areas with a great deal of dust. According to a longtime coworker, he was assigned to be head mechanic over tank crews,…