Asbestos Sites Identified in US

Article Added August 14th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

Natural asbestos has been located in 36 states, according to a new study released by the US Geological Service. The study is based on prior research, and does not list any new sites found.

Asbestos may be a hazardous material, but it is also a natural one. A report issued by the US Geological Survey noted that natural deposits of asbestos could be found in 36 states or more, since the report is based on old studies. The report was issued solely to show that previous notations of naturally occurring asbestos could be inaccurate, and potentially harmful to the public. The study included specific types of asbestos in 20 states, an updated from previous reports that did not contain material types.

Natural asbestos is normally a safe material, since it remains in an unaltered state. If the area is disturbed by mining or building, though, the asbestos can become harmful to the public. With old data, building permits may not accurately convey if a site has asbestos present, putting workers and civilians in danger. If asbestos is aggravated, the material can break into fibers that can be inhaled. Inhaling asbestos can result in asbestosis, emphysema and mesothelioma, a lung cancer caused by asbestos.

Article Added August 14th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story