Asbestos in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Asbestos
Wisconsin only has one known deposit of naturally occurring asbestos, which is located along its border with Michigan. However, this deposit may not be of health concern as it has never been mined. What issues Wisconsin does have is from imported asbestos and through workplace exposure.
Jobs with Asbestos Exposure
Wisconsin’s paper manufacturing industry not only uses asbestos in the insulation, but also the materials used during the paper’s drying processes were made of these nonflammable fibers. Wisconsin is the largest manufacturer of paper.
The paper mills in Wisconsin were located in:
- Kaukauna
- Rapids
- Marinette
- Green Bay
- Mosinee
Wisconsin’s construction industry is like most other states in that this particular industry often uses asbestos-containing products. Such products typically include insulation, pipe fitters for the plumbing system, drywall products, and flooring. Prior to the 1980s, many vinyl flooring contained asbestos. Construction workers were left vulnerable to asbestos exposure on a daily basis.
Power plants provide electricity to millions of homes in the state of Wisconsin. Asbestos was used primarily as insulation wrapped around pipelines throughout the plant, shielding the workers from the heat generated.
The clothing manufacturers in Wisconsin also have asbestos issues. Whether it is during the distribution process where their machinery has asbestos parts or the materials used during shipping. Those who work in these clothing manufacturing factories are at risk for asbestos exposure. The clothing itself may contain asbestos and after wear and tear, fibers may be released from these items of clothing and into the air.
Asbestos-Related Deaths
Since 1978, there have been over 700 deaths caused by asbestos exposure. Of the total, significantly more than half were due to mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer that affects the lining of the lungs.
