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For over two years, employees and customers at the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in Brooklyn were exposed to Trichloroethylene (TCE) vapor, a known carcinogen. Despite detection of indoor air pollution in March 2021, the property owners and health officials did not adequately inform the public. The site, used for manufacturing since 1886, is under investigation for contamination. Thousands may have been exposed, raising health concerns in the rapidly developing community. Remediation efforts are underway, but full resolution is expected by late 2024.

The FDA has issued a warning about defective food allergy skin test kits that may produce false negative results, leading to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. These kits, particularly those diagnosing peanut allergies, have been linked to serious injuries and potential fatalities. The FDA now requires warnings on these tests, advising doctors to verify results with more accurate methods. The issue is not isolated, with 90 false negative cases reported, including 17 serious injuries. ALK-Abello and Greer Laboratories, the manufacturers, have not commented on the new labeling requirements.

A new report highlights safety concerns with electric bicycles and scooters, focusing on battery-related fires. In 2022, these vehicles caused 216 fires, 147 injuries, and six deaths in New York City. The city legalized them in 2020, and their use surged during the pandemic. Lawmakers are addressing the issue with new safety standards and public education. Lithium-ion batteries, prone to "thermal runaway," pose significant risks. Some companies have banned e-scooters and e-bikes, while others propose safer storage solutions. The report calls for stricter regulations and better safety measures.

A report has linked "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in the artificial turf at Veterans Stadium to the deaths of six former Philadelphia Phillies players from glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. PFAS, known for their persistence in the environment, have been associated with cancer and other health issues. The stadium's turf, once popular, had already been criticized for causing injuries. This revelation has heightened concerns about PFAS, which have been phased out by U.S. manufacturers but remain prevalent in the environment.

The NTSB has investigated incidents involving electric vehicle fires, highlighting safety risks posed by lithium-ion batteries to emergency responders. These batteries can cause electric shock, explosions, and toxic gas release. The NTSB emphasizes the need for proper training and equipment for responders and recommends that manufacturers improve emergency response guidance. Regulators are urged to establish uniform safety standards for battery design and emergency protocols. As electric vehicle use grows, ensuring safety through updated standards and training is crucial for responders and public safety.

The FDA issued a warning about early structural valve deterioration (SVD) in Abbott Trifecta and Trifecta GT heart valves, noting a higher incidence compared to other valves. Healthcare providers are advised to consider all treatment options and monitor patients for SVD symptoms. The FDA is working with Abbott to assess the issue and encourages reporting of adverse events. Legal assistance is available for those affected by defective valves, with Parker Waichman LLP offering consultations for potential lawsuits.

U.S. health officials have announced recalls of eyedrops from two manufacturers due to contamination risks that could lead to serious injuries and vision problems. The recalls involve prescription and over-the-counter products used for conditions like dry eyes and glaucoma. The FDA issued recalls for Apotex's Brimonidine Tartrate Ophthalmic Solution due to cracked bottle caps and Pharmedica's Purely Soothing 15% MSM Drops due to potential blindness risks. Consumers are advised to stop using these products and seek medical attention if adverse effects occur.

The U.S. military is testing a new system to destroy toxic PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," using superheated water. This method involves high pressure and extreme heat to break down these persistent substances. Tests are being conducted at two U.S. Air Force bases and one Navy base, focusing on contaminated groundwater. This initiative is part of a broader effort to find effective technologies for degrading PFAS, which are widely used in various products and pose significant environmental and health risks.

On March 6, 2023, Melanie H. Muhlstock, Managing Partner at Parker Waichman LLP, was appointed to the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee in the multi-district litigation concerning hair relaxer marketing and product liability. The appointment was made by Judge Mary M. Rowland of the Northern District of Illinois. Muhlstock, with over 25 years of experience in mass torts, joins a diverse team to advocate for plaintiffs alleging serious injuries from hair relaxers, including cancers. Parker Waichman LLP represents nearly 1,000 plaintiffs in this growing litigation.

Tesla is recalling about 3,500 Model Y vehicles from 2022-2023 due to improperly tightened second-row seat back bolts, affecting around 4% of these models. This defect can impair seat belt function during crashes, increasing injury risk. Tesla discovered the issue after five warranty claims and a Fremont incident, prompting an investigation and recall. Affected owners will be notified by mail to have their vehicles inspected and repaired for free. The recall highlights the importance of addressing manufacturing defects to prevent accidents and injuries.

Bindle Bottle has recalled four sizes of its insulated bottles due to potential lead contamination in the bottom storage compartment, which could contaminate unpackaged food. The recall affects 32-ounce, 24-ounce, 20-ounce, and 13-ounce bottles, as well as the "Puppy Pack" product. The company has suspended production and plans to modify manufacturing processes to eliminate exposed lead. Customers are advised to stop using the bottom compartment until they receive a repair kit. The stainless steel interior remains safe for liquid storage. The bottles were sold nationwide through various channels.

Suzuki has recalled all 2022 Hayabusa motorcycles due to a critical braking system issue. The recall affects over 2,500 units manufactured between March 26, 2021, and January 11, 2022. The problem involves increased front brake lever play caused by incorrect master cylinder port positioning, potentially leading to increased braking distance and crashes. Owners are advised to contact Suzuki dealerships for a free replacement of the front brake master cylinder body. Suzuki has issued a stop-sale on unsold models and will notify registered owners about the recall.

Losing a loved one in a workplace accident is both tragic and financially challenging. In Florida, families can file a workplace death lawsuit to seek compensation. Eligible individuals include the deceased's spouse, children, parents, or dependents. Compensation may cover funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering. The process involves hiring an attorney, investigating the accident, determining liability, and potentially going to trial if a settlement isn't reached. It's crucial to act within Florida's two-year statute of limitations. Parker Waichman LLP offers free consultations to guide families through this legal process.

The FDA has issued a warning about potential cancer risks linked to breast implants after receiving nearly two dozen adverse reports. The warning highlights the development of cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma and various lymphomas, in scar tissue around implants. While textured implants have been associated with anaplastic large-cell lymphoma, all implant types, whether silicone or saline, have been linked to cancer cases. The FDA advises monitoring implants for changes but does not recommend removal. The agency emphasizes the need for more data to determine specific risks.

A recent study indicates that Erythritol, a common artificial sweetener, may double the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiac procedures. Conducted by the Cleveland Clinic, the research found that Erythritol is linked to increased blood clot formation, which can lead to these cardiovascular events. Erythritol is widely used in sugar-free products like gum, candy, and baked goods. The study suggests that individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular disease should avoid Erythritol. Further research is needed to fully understand the health implications of Erythritol and similar sugar alcohols.

The FDA is scrutinizing nitrosamines, cancer-causing chemicals found in medications, leading to recalls of drugs like valsartan, losartan, Zantac, metformin, and Chantix. Since 2018, over 12 million bottles of blood pressure drugs have been recalled. The FDA requires pharmaceutical companies to assess nitrosamine risks and take action by October. Despite the small risk, lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers. Experts blame a focus on cost over quality. The generic drug industry, producing 90% of US prescriptions, opposes the FDA's review, citing resource concerns and potential drug shortages.

XDEEP has recalled its 1st stage scuba regulators due to a defect in the turret connection screw, posing a risk of injury or drowning. The recall, announced on February 23, 2023, affects regulators sold in the U.S. and Canada from February 2019 to October 2022. Consumers should stop using the affected NX700 model and contact XDEEP for a free replacement or refund. The regulators were sold for $600-$800 and manufactured in Italy. XDEEP is reaching out to known purchasers, and TecDive Gear is handling returns.

Global Pharma Healthcare has recalled all lots of Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment Cream due to potential microbial contamination with a drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause infections leading to blindness and death. This follows a previous recall of EzriCare Artificial Eye Drops linked to similar issues. No adverse incidents have been reported for the ointment yet. Consumers are advised to dispose of the product and contact their physician if symptoms occur. Legal options for compensation are available for those affected by the product.

Platinum Health LLC is recalling approximately 53,000 LumaRail portable bed rails due to risks of entrapment and asphyxia, following a reported death of an 81-year-old in Pennsylvania. The recall involves models PHB4000, PHB6000, and PHB7000D, sold from July 2015 to December 2022. Consumers should stop using these products and contact Platinum Health for a free repair kit or replacement. For legal recourse, individuals harmed by these products may pursue a product liability lawsuit for compensation. Contact Parker Waichman LLP for a free case review.

The Taconic State Parkway in New York is identified as the 7th deadliest road in America, according to a Hudson Valley Post report. It is the only road in New York on the list, known for its narrow lanes and hazardous intersections, especially during bad weather. Over the past three years, it has seen over 2,000 accidents. The report also highlights that US Route 1 in Florida is the deadliest road in the U.S. Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of death for people under 30 in the country.

In 2023, lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters caused nearly two dozen fires in New York City, resulting in 36 injuries and two deaths. This marks a fourfold increase from the previous year. The FDNY advises safe charging practices, while city officials work on regulations and public education. Recent incidents include fires in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens. Concerns over safety led to the withdrawal of a proposed battery storage facility on Staten Island. State legislators are pushing for restrictions on such installations due to safety hazards.

A fire at Schultz Xtruded Products in Hernando, Mississippi, led to a chemical spill, releasing Hydrofluoric Acid into Mussacuna Creek. The DeSoto County Government confirmed that the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is satisfied with the cleanup progress, and the dam is being removed to restore creek flow. There is no indication of drinking water contamination. Air quality tests showed no measurable detection, but monitoring continues. Cleanup efforts will persist, and nearby waterways will be assessed for impacts. Mitigation measures are in place to prevent future contamination.

A report by the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) indicates that construction worker fatalities in New York state increased in 2021, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The "Deadly Skyline" report notes 61 deaths, a 9% rise from 2020, contrasting with a national decrease. New York City's death rate was 11.2 per 100,000 workers, higher than the national average. Hispanic workers, 10% of the workforce, accounted for 25.5% of fatalities. The report uses data from various agencies, and new legislation aims to improve reporting and impose stricter penalties for unsafe conditions.

Cosori has recalled about 2 million air fryers in the U.S. and 271,000 in Canada and Mexico due to overheating and fire risks. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported numerous incidents of the air fryers catching fire, causing property damage and injuries. A defect in the units can cause wire connections to overheat. Affected models include CP158-AF, CP137-AF, and others. Sold from June 2018 to December 2022, consumers are advised to stop using them and register for a free replacement on Cosori's website.