History of Asbestos in Alaska
Naturally occurring asbestos is defined as asbestiform fibers that appear in rock formations. Geologists have identified numerous locations in Alaska that have high levels of naturally occurring asbestos. Due to weathering or land development, these asbestos fibers can become airborne, posing risks to Alaskan workers and nearby residents.
Areas in Alaska that feature naturally occurring asbestos include Juneau and Ketchikan. More rural areas of asbestos deposits include the central to east areas of the Yukon River, the vicinity of the Kobuk Valley National Park and the town of Glennallen.
Many Alaska industries also have a history of working with and around asbestos products. Alaskan manufacturing plants that work with asbestos products (either directly or indirectly) serve to increase the possibility for asbestos exposure. Paper mills, seafood processing plants and oil refineries in the state have been known to use asbestos for building insulation and other purposes. Government military bases in Alaska may also be a source.
As with other coastal states, Alaska's shipbuilding industry is another job source that has been linked to asbestos exposure. Professions that required Alaskans to work in and around shipyards, longshoremen, naval professions, shipbuilding, and more, are globally associated with mesothelioma.
Companies at Risk for Asbestos Exposure
Both defunct and current Alaskan companies may still be linked to present cases of mesothelioma. The Alaska businesses listed below, among others, are those that have been determined to be places where asbestos exposure either is presently a concern, or was a concern at some point in the past.
- Alaska Pipeline
- Alaska Steam Compressor Plant
- Anchorage Terminal
- Aurora Power
- Beluga Power
- Bernice Lake Powerhouse
- BP Oil
- Campbell Creek Pump Station
- Carl E. Bailey Generating Station
- Chester Creek Pump Station
- Chevron Asphalt Company
- Collier Carbon and Chemical
- Eielson Air Force Base
- Elmendorf Air Force Base
- Fort Richardson
- Fort Wainwright
- General Electric
- Georgia Pacific Paper Mill
- Golden Valley Power Plant
- Great Pacific Seafood
- Industrial Air Products
- Industrial Refrigeration
- Ladd Air Force Base
- Liquid Air Incorporated
- Process Piping
- Ryan & Haworth
- Sealand
- Seward Ships Drydock
- Shell Oil
- Sitka Paper Mill
- Standard Oil
- U.S. Naval Station
- Union Oil Company
- University of Alaska
- Water Jacket Insulation #2
- Westinghouse Plant
Asbestos-related Deaths in Alaska
Though figures of asbestos-related deaths have only been kept for about 30 years, it appears that cases of mesothelioma in Alaska are rising. From 1979 to 2000, it is estimated that about 25 people died from asbestosis and 23 to 31 people died from mesothelioma.
The U.S. government began tracking mesothelioma cases more carefully in 1999. Between the period of 1999 and 2004, there were 30 recorded mesothelioma deaths in Alaska. This sharp increase may be partly due to more detailed data collection. However, Alaskan industries associated with asbestos did not begin to boom until the 1960s. Given this time frame, more mesothelioma cases are expected to be seen in the near future.
Where to Get Help
Mesothelioma Treatment Center
Providence Alaska Medical Center
3200 Providence Drive
Anchorage, Alaska 99519
An Alaska mesothelioma attorney can help with all aspects of the mesothelioma legal process. For example, Alaska mesothelioma attorneys may be able to help pinpoint the original source of asbestos exposure, determine whether or not you have enough evidence to bring the case to court and file your claim.
Many asbestos companies knowingly expose employers and citizens to asbestos. With a knowledgeable and experienced Alaska mesothelioma lawyer on your side, you will be more adequately prepared to fight for financial compensation.
Simon, Eddins & Greenstone, LLP, has a team of mesothelioma lawyers that have had exceptional success in helping asbestos sufferers with their legal cases. A number of our cases and verdicts have resulted in multi-million dollar settlements for our clients.
Our mesothelioma attorneys will personally work with you to discuss your legal options. For a free, no obligation consultation, we encourage you to contact us toll-free at 888-632-7574.