Federal Officials Order More Tests on Asbestos-Like Mineral

By Alison Gonzalez

Published on August 10, 2007

North Dakota officials were planning to excavate the mineral — called erionite — and use it as gravel for nearby roads, unaware of its health risks. But when they learned of a study from Turkey that suggested a link between erionite and lung cancer and mesothelioma, the EPA stepped in.

EPA coordinator Joyce Ackerman said results from agency's tests conducted last October were hard to interpret, and that more testing needs to be done.

Testing showed erionite fibers, which look very similar to asbestos fibers and are similar in composition to iron and other chemicals, have been found in the air in Killdeer. However, Ackerman said it is still unclear if the erionite exposure is high enough to be a health concern.

The EPA, along with state health officials, is looking into studying nearby residents who have had long-term exposure to the mineral. They want to determine if those people experience the same side effects as those who have been exposed to asbestos.

EPA officials plan to schedule a public meeting after more data is available.

Comment on this article →