Power Plants and Potential Asbestos Exposure in New Jersey and New Mexico


Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals known for their fibrous nature and resistance to heat, electricity, and corrosion. These properties made asbestos a popular material in various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, and power generation. However, asbestos is also a known carcinogen, and its fibers can cause serious health issues, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, when inhaled.

New Jersey

Hope Creek Nuclear Power Plant

Hope Creek Nuclear Power Plant, located in Salem County, New Jersey, is a single-unit boiling water reactor that began operations in the 1980s. Asbestos was likely used in its construction and insulation due to its heat-resistant properties. Maintenance and renovation activities in such facilities can disturb asbestos-containing materials, posing health risks to workers.

Oyster Creek Nuclear Power Plant

Oyster Creek Nuclear Power Plant was a single-unit boiling water reactor located in Lacey Township, New Jersey. It operated from 1969 until it was permanently shut down in 2018. Given its construction date, asbestos was almost certainly used in various components, including insulation, gaskets, and fireproofing materials. Decommissioning activities must handle asbestos with care to prevent exposure.

Salem Nuclear Power Plant

The Salem Nuclear Power Plant, also situated in Salem County, New Jersey, consists of two pressurized water reactors. The first unit started in 1977, followed by the second in 1981. As with other plants from this era, asbestos was likely used extensively. Ongoing operations and maintenance work need strict asbestos management protocols to protect workers.

New Mexico

Four Corners Powerhouse

The Four Corners Powerhouse, a coal-fired power plant located near Farmington, New Mexico, has been operational since the 1960s. Asbestos was commonly used in power plants for insulating boilers, turbines, and pipes. The plant’s age indicates a high likelihood of asbestos presence. Any repair, maintenance, or demolition activities at the site must include measures to handle asbestos safely.

United Nuclear Corporation

The United Nuclear Corporation operated various facilities, including uranium mines and mills in New Mexico. These operations, particularly those dating back to the mid-20th century, often used asbestos for insulation and protective gear. Workers at these sites could have been exposed to asbestos fibers, increasing their risk of developing asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos management in these facilities involves regular monitoring, proper handling and disposal procedures, and protective measures for workers to prevent exposure. These precautions are essential to mitigate the health risks associated with asbestos.