Mesothelioma and Asbestos

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to do asbestos testing around the site of the former W.R. Grace Zonolite factory in Spokane, Washington. Asbestos fibers were found in the yards of nearby residences during soil testing in June, as well as the EPA wants to know incase the asbestos could become airborne during routine activities similar raking or shoveling dirt.

The on-scene coordinator for the clean-up program said that the EPA is concerned that even the abridged levels of asbestos found in the soil could pose a risk incase it becomes airborne, something they’ve learned from other sites similar the one in Libby, Montana.

The W.R. Grace Zonolite factory in Spokane stopped making asbestos-laden attic insulation when the factory closed in 1973 after state inspectors were tipped off about the high levels of asbestos inside. The EPA is conducting its testing in two yards as well as some county-owned property. Results should be available in the next six weeks.

For the filled story, go to The Spokesman-Review.