Asbestos exposure is commonly associated with factories, shipyards, and construction, but one overlooked risk area is landscaping. For those working with soil, particularly in Pennsylvania’s older industrial communities, landscapers and asbestos exposure risks can be real, especially when disturbing contaminated ground.
Understanding the Connection Between Landscapers and Asbestos
The phrase “landscapers and asbestos” might seem unlikely, but evidence shows that soil can harbor asbestos, especially near former asbestos manufacturing sites, demolition zones, or areas where naturally occurring asbestos exists. When landscapers dig, grade, or till the soil, these tiny asbestos fibers can be released into the air and inhaled.
In fact, landscapers working around older buildings or in towns like Ambler, Pennsylvania—a former hub for asbestos production—may not know that they are potentially near lingering soil contamination.
How Soil Becomes Contaminated with Asbestos
There are multiple sources of asbestos in soil:
- Illegal dumping of industrial waste from manufacturers
- Old asbestos-containing materials left behind during demolition
- Fill dirt contaminated with asbestos used for landscaping or grading
- Naturally occurring asbestos present in rock formations in parts of Pennsylvania
A landscaper digging or planting in these areas may disturb asbestos fibers and have no idea they are inhaling them, increasing long-term health risks such as asbestosis, pleural plaques, or even mesothelioma.
Where in Pennsylvania Are Landscapers Most at Risk?
Ambler, PA as a Superfund cleanup site due to the high volume of asbestos debris present in the area. But Ambler is not alone, other towns with a history of heavy manufacturing may pose similar risks, particularly when asbestos waste was not properly disposed of.
Areas of concern include:
- Delaware County (home to shipbuilding and machinery industries)
- Pittsburgh and surrounding steel towns
- Harrisburg (due to demolished insulation-heavy industrial plants)
- Philadelphia suburbs with older construction stock
Safety Tips for Landscapers Around Suspected Asbestos Soil
To reduce exposure risks:
- Pre-screen work sites—especially near demolition or older buildings
- Use wet methods (watering the soil) to prevent airborne dust
- Use gloves and protective clothing, and avoid bringing contaminated gear home
- Contact local environmental health agencies if contamination is suspected
Even though exposure symptoms may take decades to appear, early documentation of job sites and medical screenings can make a difference.
Landscapers and Asbestos Exposure Can Still Lead to Compensation
At the Halpern Law Firm, we know that every exposure story is unique. Landscapers, groundskeepers, and soil workers may not realize they’ve been exposed until symptoms develop years later. That’s why we offer personalized case reviews based on exposure history, site documentation, and medical records.
Your Next Step Starts Here
Your environment may hold the key to your exposure. Let our team help you unlock justice and recovery. The Halpern Law Firm is dedicated to helping individuals who’ve been unknowingly exposed to asbestos, including landscapers and outdoor workers who may not realize their risk.
With decades of experience handling asbestos-related claims in Pennsylvania, our team provides compassionate, personalized guidance every step of the way. Call (800) 505‑6000 or fill out our contact form today. We’ll help assess your case and walk you through next steps, from compiling work history to navigating trust claims.
Sources:
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/4/1579
https://www.epa.gov/superfund/borit
