Locals Concerned Over Asbestos Contamination -- MesoLink.org -- 10-10-05

Residents living near the old Coosa Thatcher Plant site are expressing both concern and anger over asbestos contamination in the area. This follows the discovery of asbestos at the site by environmental officials and investigators. Once the site at which yarn was produced, the old mill is now proving a potential health hazard for locals, and many have voiced their concerns over the possibility of asbestos contamination.

There were holes in the old building, which workers have now tried to seal up. However, officials state that the contamination may have been coming from the holes for a number of months. The site has now been sealed off with warning to inform the public about the possible dangers of the site. Tests are being performed to check on the potential hazards of other material in the building.

One of the reasons why residents are so angry is because the authorities appear to have known about the contamination and hazards for a matter of months, yet only told residents a few days ago. One resident stated: "I've been feeling sort of drowsy and been hurting around the neck here. In fact, I'm going to the doctor tomorrow and get this checked out."

Another, who saw officials working at the site, said: "They had full uniforms, white uniforms, head masks and breathing masks…I said is that bad. They said, "Oh no, unless you breathe it." I said well we're breathing it."