Verizon Pole Worker’s Proposed Lead Cable Class Action Dismissed

A Verizon Communications Inc. utility pole worker failed to show that his alleged exposure to lead-sheathed cables constituted a sufficient injury to advance a proposed class action.

Mark Tiger said he was routinely sick when he worked with the cables, but “mere exposure to lead—even when accompanied by allegations of common ailments” is insufficient for Article III standing, the US District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Everyone is exposed to lead to some extent, as it naturally occurs in the environment, Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan said, dismissing the case without prejudice.

Tiger’s case could’ve been stronger had he ...