Asbestos in South Dakota
South Dakota Asbestos
There are not many industrial asbestos sites in South Dakota. However, there are deposits of naturally occurring asbestos within the state borders. These deposits are located near the Jewell Cave National Monument and Custer State Park.
Jobs with Asbestos Exposure
Exposure in the state of South Dakota typically was through mechanic shops and around machinery manufacturers. South Dakota also had power plants sporadically spread across the state. When the machinery begins to show signs of wear and tear, asbestos fibers may be disturbed and released. Workers are then at risk for inhaling the fibers that can cause them mesothelioma or asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestosis is the scarring of the lungs.
South Dakota has its share of power plants. The generators found in power plants often contain asbestos that can eventually become friable. When asbestos becomes more friable, it is more likely to be disturbed and released into the air. Generators and pipelines may even contain asbestos insulation. Asbestos is used often as insulation due to its ability to resist fire and heat. Workers in these plants are at risk for potential asbestos exposure.
The construction industry is also at risk for asbestos exposure. Construction workers often work around asbestos-containing cement, drywall products, flooring, tile, and insulation. Construction workers also face a risk of asbestos exposure on the job. They even increase the risk of exposing family members to asbestos from the fibers that attaches to their work clothes.
Power Plants:
- Pathfinder Plant
- Big Stone Plant
Asbestos-Related Deaths
South Dakota has a relatively low rate of asbestos deaths compared to other states. Since 1979, there have been only 63 deaths caused by asbestos exposure. The majority of South Dakota’s asbestos-induced deaths were caused by mesothelioma.
