Asbestos in Chemical Plants
Chemical plants are industrial centers that process and manufacture large amounts of chemicals. In many cases, everything from pharmaceutical companies to waste water treatment facilities utilize the same chemical plant equipment and materials to create their own products as well. While many of these industrial facilities do offer beneficial services to the community, it is important to keep in mind that they handle extremely dangerous chemicals and may contain harmful substances such as asbestos.
Uses of Asbestos
To help protect workers and the public from hazardous chemicals reactions as well as fires, chemical plants rely on strong insulation materials such as asbestos. Asbestos resists heat, flame, electricity, and many chemicals. Additionally, it is strong and flexible so it is easily added to things such as:
- Wall, pipe, and electrical wire insulation
- Cement
- Fire protection gear
- Fire-resistant coatings for walls, counter tops, and walls
- Gaskets
The Dangers of Asbestos
Sadly, though, asbestos is a known human carcinogen that can cause painful, deadly diseases. If a chemical plant suffers a catastrophe, you can be exposed to these toxic chemicals as well as microscopic asbestos fibers. These fibers can lodge in your lungs and digestive system, causing devastating health problems including:
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
- Lung cancer
If you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos by working in or living near a chemical plant before 1987, you should consult your primary care physician immediately. He or she can help you detect any health problems you may have from exposure to asbestos in chemical plants.
Chemical Plants in the U.S.
Although asbestos is meant to protect workers from chemical exposure, it is essentially trading one hazard for another. When a chemical spill occurs, it can release toxic materials including asbestos. Chemical plant sites in the United States include:
- Allied Chemical and Dye Corporation, Omaha, Nebraska
- Stauffer Chemical Company, Henderson, Nevada
- American Chemet Corporation, Helena, Montana
- Collier Carbon and Chemical Corporation, Kenai, Alaska
- Dow Chemical Plant, Pittsburg, California
- Naugatuck Chemical Company, Naugatuck, Connecticut
- Monsanto Chemical Company, Soda Springs, Idaho
- Shell Chemicals Geismar, Ascension Parish, Louisiana
- W.R. Grace and Company, Columbia, Maryland
- CAI/Arnel Chemical Plant, Danvers, Massachusetts
- Wyandotte Chemical Plant, Wyandotte, Michigan
- 3M Company, St. Paul, Minnesota
- Mississippi Chemical Corporation, Yazoo City, Mississippi
- Mallinckrodt Inc., St. Louis, Missouri
