Document aDDLa02XgaoxxvXx895q5yjzR
Social Services
April 5, 1979 . 533-4207
Scott M. Mthtsor>. Governor, Stutvo' Utah Anthony W. Mitchttl. Ph.D.. Executive Director
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Mr. J. L Wharton .' Johns-Manville Sales Corporation Pipe Division 525 East Third South Salt Lake City, Utah 84102
Dear Mr. Wharton
We appreciate your presentation on asbestos cement (A.C.) pipe this
morning. Per your request, this letter is being written to let you know of our feelings concerning A.C. pipe.
While there have been various allegations relative to asbestos in drink ing water which may have originated from A.C. pipe, we are also aware of many studies by such agencies as American' Water Works Association, National'Academy of Science, etc., none of which have concluded that
the use of A.C. pipe poses a threat to the health of water users. Fur thermore, we feel that there is a significantly larger health risk when
asbestos fibers are chronically inhaled into the respiratory system than fibers passing through the'digestive system.
In summary, we do not at this potnt feel that there is a health risk
associated with the. use of A.C. pipe in public water systems which is
greater than is experienced with the use of other types of commonly ac
cepted pipe. When we learn of any information to the contrary, we will
let you know.
Sincerely, .
Gayle J. Smith, P. E.,-Director*
Bureau of Public Water Supplies
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* * *.
Division ol Health
Environmental Health Services 8ronch James O.Clis* Deputy Director o! Health
,
150 West No>tb Tnmpie. Suim o P.O. Cox 2500. kilt LaVe-City. Ut.ih 34110
B01-533-6121
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CAPCO JEN 0010959