Asbestos in Wisconsin

Wisconsin's long history of manufacturing, paper production, and shipbuilding has resulted in a widespread presence of asbestos in buildings and infrastructure throughout the state, posing potential health risks to both workers and residents.

Wisconsin faces a significant challenge with asbestos contamination due to its extensive use in various industries throughout the 20th century. From paper mills and power plants to shipyards and factories, asbestos was a common component in insulation, fireproofing, and building materials. This legacy of asbestos use continues to pose health risks to Wisconsin residents and workers. Learn about Wisconsin's documented asbestos job sites, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, and resources available to those affected.

Known Asbestos Job Sites in Wisconsin

Explore 1331 known asbestos sites and job-sites across Wisconsin.

Job Site	City	State
10712 W. Grange	Hales Corners	WI
2290 W. Edgerton Avenue	Hales Corners	WI
2500 Rockway Place	Brookfield	WI
600 Park Street Building	Madison	WI
620 North 108th Place	Milwaukee	WI
9920 W. Edgerton Avenue	Hales Corners	WI
A & A Insulation	Green Bay	WI
ACandS	Milwaukee	WI
A.C. Electronics Division General Motors	Oak Creek	WI
Acme Die Casting	Racine	WI
Acoustical Lab Building	La Crosse	WI
A.C. Spark Plug Division General Motors	Oak Creek	WI
A.C. Spark Plug Division General Motors	Milwaukee	WI
Adelman Laundry	Milwaukee	WI
Advance Boiler & Tank	Milwaukee	WI

Occupations with High Asbestos Exposure in Wisconsin

Paper Mill Workers: Wisconsin's numerous paper mills historically used asbestos extensively in insulation, pipe coverings, and other equipment (Example: Paper mills in Appleton, Green Bay, and Neenah).
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).
Shipyard Workers: Shipbuilding activities, particularly along the Great Lakes, exposed workers to asbestos used in ship construction and insulation (Example: Shipyards in Manitowoc and Superior).
Power Plant Workers: Asbestos was widely used for insulation and fireproofing in power generation facilities throughout Wisconsin (Example: Wisconsin Public Service Corporation power plants).

Wisconsin Asbestos Regulations and Laws

Wisconsin has implemented laws and regulations to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure. These regulations are primarily enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)

DHS oversees asbestos abatement activities, including:

Licensing of asbestos abatement contractors
Issuing permits for asbestos removal projects
Ensuring proper disposal of asbestos-containing materials
Providing guidance on managing asbestos in public buildings and schools.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

DNR enforces regulations related to:

Asbestos air pollution control
Notification requirements for demolition and renovation activities involving asbestos-containing materials.

Key Laws and Regulations

Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter DHS 159: This chapter addresses asbestos abatement projects, including notification requirements, work practices, and disposal procedures.
Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter NR 447: This chapter regulates air pollution control related to asbestos, including emission standards and notification requirements for demolition and renovation activities.

Sources

Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) - Asbestos: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/asbestos/index.htm
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - Asbestos: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Demo/Asbestos.html
Wisconsin Legislature - Chapter DHS 159: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/dhs/110/159.pdf

Were You Harmed by Asbestos Exposure in Wisconsin?

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