Home » Toxins » Asbestos Exposure »

Asbestos investigation continues at Cambria Air Force Station

Sep 11, 2007 | Sarah Arnquist | San Luis Tribune

The San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District continued its investigation this morning into possible illegal asbestos abatement at the old Cambria Air Force Station.

An air pollution official confirmed the agency went to the 34-acre property two miles south of Cambria but would not elaborate on what or who they were investigating.

The Sheriff's department assisted the agency but does not have its own open case, said spokesman Brian Hascall.

Following reports from at least two people living at the old station who feared they were exposed to toxic asbestos fibers, authorities searched the property on Aug. 29 for evidence of illegal construction in asbestos-laced buildings and improper disposal of the hazardous materials.

The residents also told The Tribune a garbage company unknowingly collected dozens of bags containing the harmful waste and dumped them into the landfills. And that asbestos pipes were buried at sites throughout the property.

Exposure to the asbestos, a carcinogen, is known to increase the risk of lung cancer and breathing disorders.