Category: <span>Libby, MT</span>

Types of Asbestos

There are six different types of asbestos that occur naturally throughout the world. Asbestos is actually the generic name given and is not a mineralogical definition.  A mineral product that is flexible, possesses high tensile strength, is heat resistant, resistant to chemical degradation, and can be woven into fabric is commercially designated as “asbestos.” Asbestos

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Asbestos: Past risk or future threat?

Most people never think or worry about asbestos. Once deemed a miracle fiber, the substance’s use was largely eradicated after OSHA came into existence. What many don’t realize is the lasting effects of the carcinogen. At one time before the dangers were realized, asbestos appeared in a variety of manufactured items, from insulation to clothing. Exposure occurred […]

Libby, Montana faces new asbestos-related threats

While exploring northwestern Montana in 1916, prospectors made a unique discovery in the mountains that would forever affect the people in the nearby town of Libby.  This strange mineral was resistant to high heat and fire, making it ideal for construction materials. Mining began three years later of the vermiculite, called Zonolite by the early […]

Asbestos Update: OSHA Violations & Fines, Construction Delays, Lung Cancer Links

Sodexho fined $81K for violations at W. Va. college Federal officials said Thursday they intend to fine Sodexho Inc. $81,000 for health and safety violations that occurred when workers were removing asbestos earlier this year at Alderson-Broaddus College in Philippi. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said the violations were found during a March inspection, […]