Asbestos in Rhode Island
Rhode Island Asbestos
For a state that is so small in size, Rhode Island has a large number of asbestos issues. Rhode Island has many historic buildings that have asbestos, as well as mines located in the northern region of the state.
Jobs with Asbestos Exposure
Like most other states, Rhode Island has power plants that provide electricity to millions of homes and businesses. Asbestos is commonly found within the walls of these plants due to its ability to resist heat and fire. Asbestos-containing insulation is often used to wrap pipes that generate electrical power. Machinery used by the workers eventually suffers some wear and tear, disturbing the asbestos fibers contained within and increasing the risk of exposure. Thousands of plant workers are at risk for asbestos exposure every shift they work. Asbestos exposure occurs when the fibers are disturbed and released into the air, ready for human inhalation.
The naval cargo shipping industry in Rhode Island is active and is a source for asbestos exposure. Asbestos was used in the shipping and shipbuilding industry due to its resistance to heat and fire. Not only is it nearly indestructible, asbestos is also inexpensive and lightweight. Asbestos was deemed a cost-effective material, ideal for shipbuilding that produced quality ships at cheaper cost. Hundreds, even thousands, of workers in these shipyards were at risk for asbestos exposure without ever knowing.
The construction industry in Rhode Island also used asbestos for insulation, cement, drywalls and pipes. It is not uncommon to find asbestos still in the HVAC rooms of old buildings and homes. While majority of the homes and businesses have gone through the abatement process, the fact that remains is that people were already at risk for exposure all those years prior to the abatement. Even schools and churches may contain asbestos.
Asbestos-Related Deaths
Rhode Island is 39th in the United States for the number of mesothelioma cases. It is also ranked 4th in the nation for the number of asbestos-related deaths. Today, Rhode Island does have the Rules and Regulations for Asbestos Control to monitor and regulate when and how asbestos can be used. This means companies must have approval from the committee prior to using asbestos. The committee bases its approval upon all factors including risks and prevention.
