🔥 Blodgett Corporation – Asbestos Exposure from Commercial Ovens and Kitchen Equipment

Blodgett Corporation became a leading manufacturer of commercial ovens, ranges, and cooking equipment widely used in restaurants, schools, and institutions throughout the 20th century. To withstand extreme heat, many of their units were insulated with asbestos, exposing food service workers, repair technicians, and installers to dangerous fibers during routine use and maintenance.

🏢 Company Overview

• Founded: 1848 (as Blodgett Oven Company)

• Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont

• Industry: Commercial kitchen equipment

• Asbestos Use Period: 1930s–1980s

• Current Status: Still in business under the Blodgett brand, now part of the Middleby Corporation

• Asbestos Trust Fund: ❌ None established

⚠️ How Blodgett Used Asbestos

Asbestos was commonly incorporated into:

• 🔥 Oven insulation

• 🔩 Gaskets and door seals

• 🧯 Fireproof panels and liners

• 🧱 Heating chambers and refractory board

• 🔧 Adhesives and cements used in installation

When Blodgett ovens were installed, serviced, or dismantled, the asbestos materials could crumble or flake, releasing airborne fibers. Even normal wear and tear could cause exposure in confined kitchen environments.

👷 Who Was Exposed?

Exposure to asbestos from Blodgett ovens affected:

• 👨‍🍳 Commercial kitchen staff

• 🧑‍🔧 HVAC and appliance repair technicians

• 🏫 School cafeteria workers

• 🏥 Hospital food service staff

• 🛠️ Installers and maintenance crews

• 🧼 Janitorial workers performing deep cleanings or replacements

Many of these workers unknowingly inhaled asbestos during daily use or equipment maintenance.

⚖️ Lawsuits & Legal History

Blodgett Corporation has been named in asbestos lawsuits, primarily involving:

• Commercial oven repairmen

• Cafeteria workers in public schools and institutions

• Installation contractors and electricians

Though the company did not establish a dedicated trust fund, claimants have sought compensation through traditional lawsuits, naming Blodgett and other equipment manufacturers as defendants.

📅 Timeline of Asbestos Use

📊 Exposure Estimates

👷 Workers Employed by Blodgett Corporation

➡️ Total Employees Exposed: ~1,200+

🌍 Workers and Users Exposed to Blodgett Products

➡️ Total Product-Related Exposure: ~34,000+

🪖 Military & Government Use

Blodgett ovens were installed in:

• 🪖 Military base kitchens and mess halls

• 🚢 Naval ships and submarines

• 🏫 Public schools and government cafeterias

• 🏥 VA hospitals and federal institutions

Military cooks and support personnel may have been exposed during meal prep or maintenance tasks involving these units.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

⚖️ Can I still sue Blodgett for asbestos exposure?

✅ Yes. Many lawsuits have been successfully filed against oven manufacturers. Even without a trust fund, victims can pursue claims through:

• Product liability lawsuits

• Multi-defendant asbestos litigation

• Claims supported by workplace or product use history

⏱️ Is there a deadline?

Yes — usually 2–3 years from diagnosis of an asbestos-related illness, depending on your state.

📋 What proof do I need?

• Medical diagnosis (e.g., mesothelioma, asbestosis)

• Employment or military kitchen records

• Product identification or service history of Blodgett ovens

🧾 List of Asbestos-Containing Blodgett Products

📌 Summary – Blodgett Corporation