United States Gypsum Asbestos Trust: Help for Construction Workers and Families 

For decades, United States Gypsum (USG) was one of the largest producers of drywall, plaster, joint compound, and other construction products used across Pennsylvania. These materials were common in homes, schools, and workplaces — but many of them contained asbestos. 

Today, thousands of construction workers, homeowners, and even family members are facing diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis after being exposed to USG products. To provide compensation, the company created the United States Gypsum Asbestos Trust. 

USG’s Role in Asbestos Exposure 

Founded in the early 1900s, USG became a household name in building materials. Unfortunately, many of these products contained asbestos until the late 1970s. Some of the most common asbestos-containing USG products included: 

• • Drywall joint compound (sometimes called “mud”) 

• • Plaster and wall systems used in schools and offices 

• • Acoustical ceiling materials 

• • Construction adhesives and cements 

When workers mixed, sanded, or cut these products, asbestos fibers were released into the air. Anyone nearby could inhale the dust — not just the workers but also laborers, janitors, and even family members who later handled dusty work clothes. 

Creation of the USG Asbestos Trust 

In 2006, United States Gypsum filed for bankruptcy due to the overwhelming number of asbestos lawsuits. As part of its restructuring, the courts required USG to establish an asbestos trust to compensate victims. 

The USG Asbestos Trust began operating in 2006 and continues to process claims today. 

Who May Qualify for the USG Asbestos Trust? 

You may qualify for compensation if you or a loved one: 

• • Worked with or around USG building products before the 1980s. 

• • Were diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, or another asbestos-related disease. 

• • Can show work history or exposure records tied to USG products. 

Some of the workers most at risk include: 

• • Carpenters 

• • Drywall installers 

• • Plasterers 

• • Maintenance staff in schools or public buildings 

• • DIY homeowners who renovated with USG joint compound 

How the Trust Works 

The USG Asbestos Trust allows victims to file claims without going through a lawsuit. Key points include: 

• • Individual Review or Expedited Review – claimants can choose a faster option with set payment values, or a slower review that may provide higher compensation. 

• • No court trial required – claims are processed administratively. 

• • Compensation for families – surviving spouses or children may be able to file claims if a loved one passed away from an asbestos disease. 

Why This Matters in PA 

Pennsylvania saw widespread use of USG products in schools, homes, and public buildings. Many workers in the construction and renovation industries here relied heavily on drywall and plaster systems that contained asbestos. 

Because asbestos diseases take decades to appear, many Pennsylvanians are only now being diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer linked to exposures from the 1960s, 70s, or even earlier. 

Moving Forward 

The USG Asbestos Trust exists to help victims and families get the financial support they deserve after decades of exposure. For Pennsylvanians, knowing your rights and understanding how these trusts work is an important step in seeking justice and support. Make sure to call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form to speak with an experienced Pennsylvania mesothelioma legal advocate. 

Sources: 

https://www.rand.org/pubs/technical_reports/TR872.html

https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/niosh/topics/asbestos/default.html