Asbestos in Alaska

Alaska's remote landscape and unique history of resource development have contributed to widespread asbestos use, affecting workers and communities throughout the state.

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has documented areas throughout Alaska with naturally occurring asbestos (NOA), adding another layer of concern for residents. We provide information about asbestos in Alaska, the potential health consequences, and resources for those diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases and their families who may have been exposed to asbestos.

Known Asbestos Job Sites in Alaska

Explore 100 known asbestos sites and job-sites across Alaska.

Job Site	City	State
ACandS	Ketchikan	AK
ADAK (Alaska Public Works)	Adak	AK
Alaska Juneau Gold Mining	Juneau	AK
Alaska Lumber & Pulp	Wrangell	AK
Alaska Lumber & Pulp	Sitka	AK
Alaska Native Service Hospital	Anchorage	AK
Alaska Pump & Supply	Anchorage	AK
Alaska Steamship	Anchorage	AK
Alyeska Pipeline Service	Valdez	AK
Alyeska Pipeline Service	Anchorage	AK
Amoco	Anchorage	AK
Anchorage Airport	Anchorage	AK
Anchorage Sewer Utility Board	Anchorage	AK
Anchorage Terminal	Anchorage	AK
Aquatrain Team Track Siding	Anchorage	AK

Occupations with High Asbestos Exposure in Alaska

Construction Workers: Asbestos was commonly used in building materials, particularly in remote areas, putting construction workers at risk. (Source: Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development)
Miners: Alaska's mining industry, beyond asbestos mining, often involved work in areas with naturally occurring asbestos.
Oil Field Workers: Asbestos was used in oil field equipment and infrastructure for insulation and fireproofing.
Shipyard Workers: Ship repair and construction activities in Alaska often involved asbestos-containing materials. (Source: OSHA)
Military Personnel: Military bases and installations in Alaska often used asbestos-containing materials in buildings and equipment. (Source: Department of Veterans Affairs)

Alaska Asbestos Regulations and Laws

Alaska has regulations aimed at protecting workers and the public from asbestos exposure. These regulations are enforced by state agencies and follow federal guidelines from agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

The DEC's Division of Air Quality oversees regulations related to asbestos abatement, demolition, and renovation projects. These regulations include requirements for surveys, notifications, licensing of asbestos professionals, and proper disposal of asbestos-containing waste. The DEC also oversees the management of naturally occurring asbestos (NOA), including site assessment, dust control, and public awareness.

Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD)

The DOLWD's Labor Standards and Safety Division, through Alaska Occupational Safety and Health (AKOSH), enforces regulations protecting workers from asbestos exposure. These include permissible exposure limits, requirements for personal protective equipment, training, medical surveillance, and asbestos abatement procedures.

Key Laws and Regulations

Alaska Statute 18.31, Asbestos: Outlines requirements for asbestos abatement, worker protection, and training.
18 AAC 75. Article 3. Discharge Restrictions and Waste Disposal Requirements for Specific Sources. Section 421. Asbestos NESHAP: Regulates asbestos emissions during renovation, demolition, and disposal.
8 AAC 61. Article 5. Asbestos Abatement Certification and Training: Sets requirements for certification and training of asbestos workers, supervisors, and inspectors.

Sources

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Asbestos: https://www.osha.gov/asbestos
Department of Veterans Affairs - Asbestos: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/asbestos/
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Learn About Asbestos: https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/learn-about-asbestos
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Asbestos Laws and Regulations: https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/asbestos-laws-and-regulations

Were You Harmed by Asbestos Exposure in Alaska?

If you or a loved one is sick or passed away due to asbestos, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. Alaska law protects victims of asbestos exposure. We can assist you in understanding your legal options.