December 23rd, 2005

Following the recent demolition of the Zip Feed Tower, a Sioux Falls doctor has requested the testing of the air around the demolition area, and technicians plan to carry out the necessary air quality testing. The doctor stated that he had contacted authorities to find out why no air quality testing had been carried out after the demolition for contaminants such as the potentially lethal asbestos, which can result in a variety of health problems including a deadly cancer known as mesothelioma.

Officials have stated that they told the doctor that the air had been tested and no asbestos was found. They stated that they told the doctor all asbestos had been removed. One official stated: "He said even if there aren't concerns, you should test, and so we said OK."

An area was cleared for onlookers to watch during the demolition. However, some researchers have stated that this could pose a problem and that it is not wise to be outside in the demolition area due to air quality risks at the time. "Spectators should be discouraged from attending such events, or if they must attend, they should position themselves at an upwind, distant location."

The doctor that requested the air testing, John Hansen, also added: "The fact that they weren't going to check in the first place shows that the process is bogus." He requested the testing in the interests of public health.