Contributing Factors
Natural asbestos deposits exist along South Dakota's western border with Wyoming, although asbestos-related disease rates remain lower than in many other states. The primary risks stem from older buildings and occupational exposure.
Workers at South Dakota's hydroelectric power plants have faced asbestos exposure from turbines and other high-heat components. Auto repair facilities have also contributed to exposure, particularly through older vehicle parts. Aging industrial machinery remains an ongoing concern.
Inhalation of asbestos fibers significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, and smoking further worsens health outcomes for exposed individuals.
High-Risk Occupations in South Dakota
Although South Dakota reports fewer mesothelioma deaths than many other states, workers in several industries continue to face asbestos exposure risks.
Power Plants
Some power plants in South Dakota still contain asbestos in walls, insulation, and equipment. Facilities such as the Pathfinder and Angus Anson Power Plants in Sioux Falls and Black Hills Generation in Rapid City historically used asbestos in turbines, generators, and insulation materials. While these materials helped manage heat and reduce fire risks, they exposed workers to dangerous airborne fibers.
Veterans
Veterans across all military branches face a higher likelihood of asbestos exposure due to its extensive use in ships, buildings, vehicles, and aircraft. In South Dakota, locations such as Ellsworth Air Force Base near Box Elder and the former Rapid City Air Force Base have been linked to asbestos exposure affecting both military personnel and civilian workers.
Construction and School Maintenance Workers
Many schools in South Dakota were built during periods when asbestos was commonly used in construction materials, including floor tiles, roofing, and insulation. As a result, maintenance staff, construction workers, and occupants of older buildings may face exposure risks. Institutions like South Dakota State University have identified asbestos in several campus structures, which are now subject to regular inspections and management plans.
Power Plant Workers
Employees working in hydroelectric facilities may encounter asbestos in turbines and heavy machinery. When these materials deteriorate or are disturbed during maintenance, asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose serious health risks.
Mechanics
Auto mechanics have historically been exposed to asbestos through brake pads, clutches, and gaskets in older vehicles. Routine repair and maintenance work in garages across South Dakota may have released asbestos dust, often without workers realizing the danger.
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Cities in South Dakota with Asbestos
There are 49 cities in South Dakota that are covered by Asbestos Trust Funds
Key Asbestos Settlements and Verdicts in South Dakota
South Dakota Included in $700 Million Johnson & Johnson Talc Settlement
South Dakota was one of 42 states, along with Washington, D.C., to join a major lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson regarding claims that the company misled consumers about the safety of its talc-based products. The lawsuit concluded with a $700 million settlement.
While Johnson & Johnson agreed to stop selling and manufacturing talc-based products in the United States, the company did not admit wrongdoing. Unlike some states that disclosed their settlement amounts, South Dakota has not publicly revealed how much it will receive, and no official payout figure has been confirmed.
