The Montana state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has confirmed that anthophyllite asbestos has been found in Helena-area homes. Additionally, the DEQ has also detected asbestos in commercial buildings and soil in the Bozeman and Livingston areas.
The DEQ believes that the asbestos originated in older mines nearby, including the Karst Mine, Asbestos in the area is often referred to by locals as “Karstolite” asbestos.
According to the DEQ, anthophyllite asbestos is a less toxic form of the naturally occurring mineral, but officials have warned residents and business owners in Helena, Bozeman and Livingston to call a professional asbestos abatement company if they discover asbestos.
The DEQ also stated that crews working in downtown Bozeman discovered chunks of anthophyllite asbestos along the side of city streets that had most likely come from nearby landfills. Officials believe that the asbestos had been used as fill several years ago and had blown into the downtown area.
Asbestos abatement has occurred in the Bozeman area before, and further abatement of asbestos-laden soil is ongoing in areas near the Public Library. “Asbestos Awareness” training was conducted by the DEQ in February and March of 2008 to educate area residents about asbestos.
Asbestos is the only known cause of pleural mesothelioma, a deadly type of cancer that attacks the lungs and presently does not have a cure. All residents in these areas are urged to enlist a professional and notify the DEQ if they discover asbestos.
Residents are cautioned to avoid handling asbestos and to wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth while in areas where the toxin may be present.
The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center encourages the Montana Department of Environment Quality to continue investigating the occurrence of asbestos in area homes, business and soil and urges residents to enlist a professional asbestos abatement company to handle all asbestos removal and disposal needs.
The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is the web’s leading resource for information related to asbestos exposure, mesothelioma, mesothelioma treatment methods, and more. Please visit the Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center website for further information.
