Asbestos in Iowa

Iowa's lack of naturally occurring asbestos doesn't exempt it from asbestos-related concerns. The state's industrial past, particularly in manufacturing, power generation, and construction, has left a legacy of asbestos use in many buildings and structures. This poses potential health risks to workers and residents who may come into contact with these materials.

While Iowa may not have asbestos mines, the extensive use of asbestos in various industries has led to its presence in numerous locations across the state. Learn about Iowa's documented asbestos job sites, the specific health risks associated with asbestos exposure, and the resources available to those affected.

Known Asbestos Job Sites in Iowa

Explore 816 known asbestos sites and job-sites across Iowa.

Job Site	City	State
ACandS	Harlan	IA
Ac Guberson	Des Moines	IA
Adel Clay Products	Redfield	IA
Ag Processing	Sergeant Bluff	IA
A.G. Processing	Eagle Grove	IA
A. H. Bennett	Sioux City	IA
Alcoa	Riverdale	IA
Alcoa	Davenport	IA
Alcoa	Bettendorf	IA
Alcoa	Webster	IA
Alliant Power	Dubuque	IA
Allied Chemical	Dubuque	IA
Allied Construction Service	Bettendorf	IA
Allied Construction Service	Des Moines	IA
Allied Mills	Mason City	IA

Occupations with High Asbestos Exposure in Iowa

Power Plant Workers: Iowa's power plants often utilized asbestos for insulation and fireproofing, exposing workers to potential hazards. (Example: Duane Arnold Energy Center)
Manufacturing Workers: Various manufacturing industries in Iowa employed asbestos in their processes and facilities.
Construction Workers: Older buildings in Iowa may contain asbestos in insulation, roofing, flooring, and other materials.
Agriculture Workers: Asbestos was used in some older farm equipment and structures, posing risks to agricultural workers.

Iowa Asbestos Regulations and Laws

Iowa has implemented laws and regulations to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure. These regulations are primarily enforced by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Iowa Division of Labor.

Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

The DNR oversees asbestos abatement activities, including:

Issuing permits for asbestos removal projects
Ensuring proper disposal of asbestos-containing materials

Iowa Division of Labor

The Division of Labor enforces workplace safety regulations related to asbestos exposure, including:

Establishing permissible exposure limits for asbestos fibers
Mandating worker training and certification for asbestos-related tasks
Requiring the use of personal protective equipment to minimize exposure

Key Laws and Regulations

Iowa Code Chapter 455B: This chapter addresses asbestos abatement and disposal, including licensing requirements for contractors and disposal procedures.
Iowa Occupational Safety and Health Act: This act incorporates federal OSHA standards for asbestos exposure, including permissible exposure limits and worker protection measures.

Sources

Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Asbestos: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Air-Quality/Asbestos-Training-Fires
Iowa Division of Labor - Asbestos: https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/building/asbestos
Iowa Code Chapter 455B: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/455B.pdf

Were You Harmed by Asbestos Exposure in Iowa?

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