January 29th, 2008

An explosion that debilitated a power plant in Illinois released asbestos into the surrounding area and lake, causing officials to close the affected lake area indefinitely. No one was injured in the explosion.

It was a fluke of luck that the Springfield, Illinois Water, Power and Light facility exploded on a Saturday night. Because the plant was on skeleton crew, no one was injured in the destruction that blew most of the generators in the Springfield CWLP. One side effect causing concern, however, is the release of asbestos in the area. The asbestos release caused part of Lake Springfield to be shut down indefinitely while clean up occurs in the area. The chief of the plant has already requested at least $3 million be given to the plant to cover the expense of the cleanup, including asbestos abatement.

Asbestos being released is a major health concern, since it can cause exposure risks to employees and the public. Something as violent as an explosion can cause asbestos particles to become airborne, posing the threat of respiratory diseases including mesothelioma. Mesothelioma, a type of deadly lung cancer, occurs when asbestos particles are breathed into the lungs. Because of the asbestos danger, anyone entering the damaged building must wear protective gear.