Over its years of operation, the mine released asbestos-containing dust into the community, and miners unknowingly carried the dust home on their clothing and in their personal vehicles. Asbestos occurs naturally, and is found in seams or veins in some igneous or metamorphic rocks. Asbestos is dangerous when its microscopic fibers become airborne and are inhaled or swallowed. The best way to prevent asbestos-related diseases is to avoid breathing these fibers. There are two ways that miners could be exposed to asbestos.
Asbestos occurs naturally and is found in seams or veins in some igneous or metamorphic rocks.
Dust samples collected by MSHA have found asbestos fibers at primarily talc mines, vermiculite mines, and asbestos mines. Asbestos has been used in commercial products because it is resistant to heat and chemicals and has high tensile strength and flexibility. Floor tiles, insulation or other sealed products containing asbestos are not inherently hazardous. However, if the material containing asbestos is torn, demolished or disturbed in any way, the asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose a health threat. If an object contains asbestos or you suspect that it contains asbestos, you should consult with your MSHA District Manager in order to contact the EPA Regional Office.