Coalinga Asbestos Mine The Coalinga Asbestos Mine in Fresno County, California was one of the largest chrysotile asbestos mining operations in the United States. The mine supplied raw asbestos fiber to manufacturers across the country for use in insulation, cement, and industrial products.
Last verified: 2026-03-09Chrysotile asbestos was discovered in the Coalinga area in the early 1900s, and commercial mining ramped up through the mid-20th century. The KCAC (King City Asbestos Company) and other operators extracted asbestos from the serpentine rock deposits of the New Idria formation. Mining declined sharply in the 1980s as regulations tightened and demand fell. The area remains a known naturally occurring asbestos zone.
Open-pit mining and crushing operations generated massive dust clouds containing chrysotile fibers. Workers handled raw asbestos with minimal protection during peak production years. Wind carried fibers to surrounding areas, and crushed rock was used on local roads, extending exposure beyond the mine site.
The following job categories at Coalinga Asbestos Mine had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:
Miners and mill workers developed mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer at significantly elevated rates. The long latency period of 20 to 50 years means former workers continue to be diagnosed today. Community exposure from contaminated roads and ambient dust also contributed to disease.
Health information is based on established medical research on asbestos exposure. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult a physician for medical advice specific to your situation.
Workers exposed to asbestos at Coalinga Asbestos Mine may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds, personal injury lawsuits, or veterans benefits. Mesothelioma patients and their families have recovered billions in compensation from companies that manufactured or used asbestos products.
Find Out If You QualifyWorkers who were employed at Coalinga Asbestos Mine between 1950s–1980s may have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may have legal options including trust fund claims and lawsuits.
If you were exposed to asbestos at Coalinga Asbestos Mine and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in California may be able to help.
The Coalinga mines produced chrysotile asbestos, the most commonly mined form in the United States. Chrysotile is classified as a known human carcinogen by the EPA, IARC, and other agencies.
Yes. The Coalinga area sits on naturally occurring asbestos deposits in serpentine rock. The EPA and California air quality agencies continue to monitor ambient fiber levels, and land disturbance can release fibers into the air.
Former workers diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis may be eligible for compensation through lawsuits or trust fund claims. An attorney experienced in asbestos litigation can evaluate the specific circumstances of your exposure.
If you or a loved one worked at Coalinga Asbestos Mine and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, our attorneys can help you explore your legal options. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.
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