Use of Off-Road Vehicles Tied to Asbestos Exposure

This study did not detail the number of ORV users who have experienced negative health outcomes. It did call for further study to determine prevalence of asbestos-related disease among ORV users. “Off-roading in areas with NOA (naturally occurring asbestos) or NOE (naturally occurring erionite) presents a nontraditional route of exposure that has not been sufficiently explored,” Wolfe wrote. “Public health initiatives should concentrate on increasing awareness of these risks.” Many Miles of Dangerous Trails Most asbestos exposure in the U.S. is work related. Occupational exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos diseases. There are documented cases, though, of secondary and environmental exposure. Libby, Montana, for example, is the best-known case of nonoccupational exposure. Asbestos dust that traveled several miles from the nearby vermiculite mines has killed or sickened hundreds of people who never worked there but lived nearby. In the past, regulatory agencies have shown concern with the potential problem for ORVs in certain areas. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management in 2008 ordered an emergency closure of parts of the Clear Creek Recreation Area in California, popular among ORV users, because of the region’s large asbestos deposits. Congress is moving to lift that closure. Most of the large asbestos deposits within the U.S. are along the Appalachian Mountains (spread across 18 eastern and southern states) and various mountain range...
Source: Asbestos and Mesothelioma News - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Tags: asbestos exposure environmental asbestos exposure mesothelioma off road vehicles secondhand asbestos exposure Source Type: news