Asbestos Discovery Results in Restricted Access in Parts of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station

The San Diego Union-Tribune recently published an article about the discovery of asbestos in parts of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station that are being prepared for eventual dismantling. According to the news story, the friable asbestos was discovered in the Unit 2 and 3 containment domes.

Both of these structures were built when the use of asbestos-containing materials was still quite common. In fact, due to the widespread use of these materials, this known carcinogen can still be found in many industrial, institutional, commercial and residential buildings throughout California. In this instance, the asbestos was discovered in cable trays in the power plant, but it was used in thousands of different manufactured goods and building materials.

“Over time, asbestos-containing materials can become friable and create exposure risks, especially during demolition, remodeling and renovation activities,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager of LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis, so it is good news to hear the asbestos in this instance was discovered and the appropriate restrictions put in place to safeguard workers.” 

To help identify potential asbestos hazards of all types, LA Testing offers asbestos analyses from air, dust, soil, surface and bulk samples. Testing not only protects workers and building occupants, it is also required under existing health and safety regulations in many instances. If asbestos is found, there are approved methods to have it safely handled. To assist in this part of the process, LA Testing also provides a comprehensive range of personal protective equipment (PPE).

To learn more about this or other occupational, environmental, air quality, health and safety testing services, please visit www.LATesting.com, email  info@LATesting.com  or call (800) 755-1794. To access test kits for asbestos and many other indoor environmental quality concerns, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com. 


About LA Testing
LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC ELITE, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro and San Diego.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

LA Testing

(1) 856-303-2503

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