Akron Area Exposure Map
Documented Exposure Sites
| # | Facility | Industry | Active Period | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BF Goodrich Akron (Diamond Rubber / Goodrich) | Rubber/Tire Manufacturing | 1870–1988 | Critical |
| 2 | Goodyear Tire & Rubber Akron | Rubber/Tire Manufacturing | 1898–present | Critical |
| 3 | Firestone Tire & Rubber | Rubber/Tire Manufacturing | 1900–1988 | Critical |
| 4 | General Tire (GenCorp) | Rubber/Tire Manufacturing | 1915–1995 | High |
| 5 | Ohio Edison Gorge Power Plant | Electric Power Generation | 1922–2011 | High |
BF Goodrich & Goodyear: Asbestos in the Rubber Capital
B.F. Goodrich established the Akron rubber industry in 1870, and Goodyear Tire & Rubber — founded in 1898 — grew to become the world's largest tire manufacturer. Both companies, along with Firestone and General Tire, operated massive manufacturing complexes in Akron that used asbestos throughout their production processes. Asbestos was used in curing molds, in friction testing equipment, in heat-resistant coatings for curing ovens, and as an ingredient in some rubber compound formulations. Workers in curing, mixing, maintenance, and those who worked near the plant's steam and boiler systems had the highest asbestos exposure.
The rubber industry's widespread use of asbestos-containing friction materials in brake linings and clutch facings — products the Akron manufacturers both produced and installed in test vehicles — also created exposure for automotive maintenance workers using Akron-made products nationwide. Mesothelioma claims from former Akron rubber workers have been filed against multiple manufacturers and resolved through Summit County courts and asbestos bankruptcy trusts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, significantly. Akron's rubber and tire manufacturing industry used asbestos in friction materials, molded rubber products, curing equipment, heat-resistant coatings, and plant infrastructure (boilers, steam lines). BF Goodrich, Goodyear, Firestone, and General Tire all had operations where asbestos exposure occurred. Workers in curing, mixing, and maintenance roles had the highest exposure. Mesothelioma claims from former Akron rubber workers continue to be filed and resolved through trust funds against bankrupt asbestos product manufacturers.
Yes. Ohio's 2-year statute of limitations (ORC §2305.10) begins at mesothelioma diagnosis, and claims can be filed against both the rubber companies (to the extent they are surviving legal entities) and the manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials used in their plants. Many asbestos bankruptcy trusts maintain reserves for rubber industry workers who can document exposure to trust predecessor companies' products. An attorney specializing in Ohio mesothelioma cases can identify all available recovery sources.