Power Plants and Asbestos Exposure in the United States
Posted on: June 8, 2024Pennsylvania
Peach Bottom Nuclear Power Plant
Peach Bottom Nuclear Power Plant, located on the west bank of the Conowingo Pond on the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania, has been operational since 1974. As with many power plants built during that era, asbestos was widely used for its heat-resistant properties, particularly in insulation for pipes, boilers, and turbines. Workers at the plant may have been exposed to asbestos fibers, which can cause serious health issues over time.
Susquehanna Power Station
The Susquehanna Power Station, situated near Berwick, Pennsylvania, is a nuclear power plant that began operations in the 1980s. During its construction and early operational years, asbestos was commonly used in various components to prevent fires and insulate machinery. Workers involved in maintenance and repairs were at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers.
Three Mile Island
Three Mile Island, located in Londonderry Township, Pennsylvania, is famously known for the partial meltdown incident in 1979. Built in the 1960s and 1970s, the plant utilized asbestos in its construction for fireproofing and insulating machinery. The incident led to increased scrutiny of safety measures, including the handling of asbestos, which posed a risk to workers’ health.
South Carolina
Catawba Nuclear Plant
Catawba Nuclear Plant, situated on Lake Wylie in York County, South Carolina, began operations in the mid-1980s. As with many nuclear plants of that era, asbestos was used extensively in insulation and fireproofing materials. This posed a health risk to workers who might have disturbed asbestos-containing materials during maintenance and operational tasks.
Wisconsin
Alliant Energy
Alliant Energy operates several power plants in Wisconsin, many of which were constructed during a time when asbestos was a common building material due to its durability and heat resistance. Workers at these facilities, particularly those involved in older plant maintenance and upgrades, were potentially exposed to asbestos fibers, leading to long-term health risks.
Summary
The use of asbestos in power plants was widespread due to its effective heat-resistant properties. However, this led to significant health risks for workers exposed to asbestos fibers, including serious respiratory conditions and cancers such as mesothelioma. Asbestos mitigation efforts have since been implemented to reduce these risks in modern power plant operations.