Asbestos in Illinois

Illinois has a long history of industrial activity, leading to significant asbestos use in construction, manufacturing, and other sectors. This legacy has left behind a burden of asbestos-containing materials in many buildings and infrastructure throughout the state.

Illinois faces challenges with asbestos-related diseases due to its industrial past. Learn about known asbestos job sites and explore available resources for those diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases and their families who may have been exposed to asbestos in Illinois.

Known Asbestos Job Sites in Illinois

Explore 4101 known asbestos sites and job-sites across Illinois.

Job Site	City	State
1000 Lake Shore Dr. Apartments	Chicago	IL
100 South Wacker Dr.	Chicago	IL
10 N. Lasalle Street, 8th Floor	Chicago	IL
1104 South Wabash Avenue	Chicago	IL
11117 Sangamon Street	Chicago	IL
111 East Wacker Dr. Offices	Chicago	IL
111 E. Wacker Dr. Office Building	Chicago	IL
120 South Lasalle Building	Chicago	IL
13-125 Merchandise Mart Plaza	Chicago	IL
1400 North State Pkwy.	Chicago	IL
14th Street Pumping Station	Chicago	IL
1508 Hinman Avenue	Evanston	IL
1545 E 60th Street	Chicago	IL
19 Cardinal Ln.	Carpentersville	IL
1St National Bank	Chicago	IL

Occupations with High Asbestos Exposure in Illinois

Construction workers: Those involved in demolition, renovation, and maintenance of older buildings are at high risk, especially insulators, pipefitters, carpenters, and electricians.
Industrial workers: Employees in manufacturing facilities, power plants, shipyards, and refineries often faced asbestos exposure.
Mechanics: Automotive mechanics and those working on heavy machinery and equipment were exposed to asbestos in brake linings, gaskets, and insulation.
Firefighters: Older buildings often contain asbestos materials, putting firefighters at risk during responses.

Illinois Asbestos Regulations and Laws

Illinois has adopted regulations to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure, primarily enforced by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA)

The IEPA enforces the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for asbestos, regulating activities like demolition, renovation, and asbestos disposal. This includes requirements for:

Notifications: Submitting notifications to the IEPA before starting any asbestos-related work.
Surveys and Inspections: Conducting asbestos surveys to identify asbestos-containing materials in buildings.
Permits: Obtaining permits for asbestos abatement projects.
Control Measures: Implementing proper control measures during asbestos removal to prevent fiber release.
Disposal: Disposing of asbestos-containing waste at authorized landfills.

Key Laws and Regulations

Illinois Asbestos Abatement Act (1984): This act establishes requirements for asbestos abatement contractors, including licensing, training, and work practices.
Illinois Environmental Protection Act: This comprehensive act provides the IEPA with authority to regulate asbestos and other hazardous materials.

Sources

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) - Asbestos: https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/air-quality/asbestos.html
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Asbestos: https://www.epa.gov/asbestos

Were You Harmed by Asbestos Exposure in Illinois?

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