Asbestos in Washington

 

 

Washington Asbestos

 

The state of Washington is one of the producers of asbestos that is found in the deposits located in the northeast portion of the state. Washington’s economy depends greatly on the shipbuilding, paper, oil, aluminum, and timber industries. All these industries rely on asbestos products to either construct their facilities, aide in the production process or provide protective gear for their workers. The usefulness of asbestos, in addition to its affordability, can often make companies overlook the hazards and dangers these toxic fibers can have on your health.

 

Jobs with Asbestos Exposure

 

Insulation made of asbestos is believed to still exist in paper mills and factories. Power plants in Washington also utilized asbestos materials heavily to provide its pipelines with the protective insulation. Power plants in Washington are constantly running to generate electrical power for the surrounding homes and businesses. The pipelines in the power plants are insulated with asbestos to protect workers from the heat. Asbestos is widely used to insulate power plant pipes due to its resistance to heat and flames.

 

Shipyards in Washington were also affected by asbestos. Many vessels have been demolished and built in these very shipyards. Asbestos-containing products are commonly used in the construction of these ships from the 1930s until the 1980s.

 

 

Power Plants:

Shipyards:

Metal Works:

Asbestos-Related Deaths

 

There have been over 1,700 asbestos deaths in the state of Washington since the 1980s. Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. Washington is ranked in the top 10 in the nation for asbestos deaths.

 

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