Without these lawsuits – along with pressure from labor unions and regulators – the rubber companies would have done little to address health issues, many in Akron say. Kevin Goode, worked 15 years for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.None of the remaining rubber companies contacted for this article would discuss specific details on their industrial hygiene and environmental practices over the years. I’ve got pictures of it.”Thomas W. Bevan, an attorney in Hudson, Ohio, has represented thousands of rubber workers in the Akron area. Former employees at rubber companies throughout Akron describe asbestos floating inside plants like snowflakes and coating their skin and clothing with white dust. Although many rubber workers and residents have sought compensation for illnesses associated with industrial chemicals, untold numbers of people didn’t try, or it never even crossed their minds.