A hazardous chemical leak at a plant in Alsip, Illinois during a fire last week may have resulted in the release of asbestos fibers into the air. The risk of the presence of the dangerous toxin could possibly keep the plant closed for an extended amount of time.

Blue Island Phenol manufactures at its plant phenol that as used in herbicides, acetone, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

According to officials the damage that was done during the fire likely released the fibers into the air as well as into the groundwater and soil near the property.

Exposure to asbestos-containing materials can result in a number of asbestos-related health problems. Diseases that can be attributed to the dangerous material include asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. The long latency period of such diseases often leaves the inflicted with limited options regarding effective treatment. Such disease could take up to 50 years before they fully develop enough to be diagnosed.

Based on an agreement between the office of Attorney General Lisa Maddigan and Blue Island Phenol the areas in which asbestos is present will be cordoned off in order to prevent anyone from gaining access and possible exposure to asbestos fibers. Attorney General Lisa Maddigan has stated that she feels the plant should remain closed until a full investigation into the cause of the accident can be completed.

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