Asbestos in Minnesota

Minnesota's history of iron ore mining and its diverse industrial sector have resulted in a significant presence of asbestos in buildings and infrastructure throughout the state, posing potential health risks to residents and workers.

Minnesota faces ongoing challenges with asbestos due to its historical use in various industries, including mining, construction, and manufacturing. While asbestos occurs naturally in some areas of Minnesota, it was also imported and widely used in numerous applications. Learn about Minnesota's documented asbestos job sites, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, and resources available to those affected.

Known Asbestos Job Sites in Minnesota

Explore 702 known asbestos sites and job-sites across Minnesota.

Job Site	City	State
3M	Fairmont	MN
3M	Minneapolis	MN
3M	Maplewood	MN
3M	Hutchinson	MN
3M	Cottage Grove	MN
3M	Saint Paul	MN
730 Baker Building	Minneapolis	MN
Abbott	Saint Paul	MN
ABEX	Two Harbors	MN
A. Booth & Company	Saint Paul	MN
ACandS	Minneapolis	MN
Ace Manufacturing	Minneapolis	MN
Acrometal Products	Minneapolis	MN
A. H. Bennett	Minneapolis	MN
A. H. Bennett	Moorhead	MN

Occupations with High Asbestos Exposure in Minnesota

Miners: Iron ore mining in Minnesota has historically involved exposure to asbestos fibers, particularly in the northeastern part of the state where asbestos occurs naturally alongside iron deposits (Example: Mesabi Iron Range mines).
Construction Workers: Asbestos was commonly used in insulation, roofing, flooring, and fireproofing materials in older buildings across the state (Example: Schools, hospitals, and public buildings constructed before the 1980s).
Manufacturing Workers: Various manufacturing industries in Minnesota utilized asbestos in products and processes, potentially exposing workers to the fibers (Example: 3M Company facilities).
Power Plant Workers: Asbestos was widely used for insulation and fireproofing in power generation facilities throughout Minnesota (Example: Xcel Energy power plants).

Minnesota Asbestos Regulations and Laws

Minnesota has established laws and regulations to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure. These regulations are primarily enforced by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)

The MPCA oversees asbestos abatement activities, including:

Requiring notification and permits for asbestos removal projects
Ensuring proper disposal of asbestos-containing materials
Providing guidance on managing asbestos in demolition and renovation projects.

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)

The MDH focuses on:

Licensing and certifying asbestos professionals, including inspectors, contractors, and project designers
Developing and enforcing asbestos-related rules for schools and public buildings
Providing information and resources on asbestos health risks and prevention.

Key Laws and Regulations:

Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 116.07: This chapter addresses asbestos abatement, including licensing requirements, notification procedures, and disposal regulations.
Minnesota Rules, Chapter 4620: This chapter provides detailed rules for asbestos abatement projects, including work practices, air monitoring, and waste management.

Sources

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) - Asbestos: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/business-with-us/asbestos-in-demolition-or-renovations
Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) - Asbestos: https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/asbestos/index.html
Minnesota Legislature - Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 116.07: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/116.07

Were You Harmed by Asbestos Exposure in Minnesota?

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