Multnomah County Issues Asbestos Exposure Warning

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News Summary

Health officials in Multnomah County have issued a warning about potential asbestos exposure at Slow Pour Coffee & Bar. Customers who visited the establishment or picked up furniture from a nearby location between August 8 and 11, 2025, may be at risk. Although health risks are deemed low, individuals are advised to clean items and attend to their safety. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is actively reaching out to those affected for proper disposal guidance.

Multnomah County Health Officials Issue Warning Over Possible Asbestos Exposure

In a troubling revelation, health officials in Multnomah County have alerted the community regarding potential exposure to dangerous asbestos dust at a local establishment. Customers who visited Slow Pour Coffee & Bar, or those who took furniture from the intersection of Southeast 17th Avenue and Southeast Clatsop Street, may be at risk of encountering asbestos particles.

The concern stems from roof renovations that were conducted at the building that once housed the coffee shop in July 2025. It has been established that during this time, asbestos dust may have contaminated furniture that was made available for free pick-up from August 8 to August 11, 2025.

Potential Dates of Exposure

Individuals who were present at the Slow Pour Coffee & Bar on the following dates are urged to take precautionary measures:

July 16, 2025
July 18 to July 26, 2025

While the health risk associated with this exposure has been deemed low, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) recommends a thorough cleaning of clothing and personal items worn during the potential exposure period. Non-machine-washable items with smooth surfaces should be carefully wiped down with a wet paper towel, which must then be sealed in two plastic bags to ensure safety.

Next Steps for Affected Individuals

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is currently attempting to reach everyone who picked up the contaminated furniture for proper guidance on how to dispose of these items safely. Those who took furniture or belongings during the specified pick-up days are strongly urged to handle these products with care and follow the recommended disposal protocols.

Asbestos is a hazardous mineral fiber known to have serious health consequences when inhaled over extended periods. Health officials have cautioned that exposure primarily impacts the lungs and the surrounding lining, potentially leading to severe conditions such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. The repercussions of long-term exposure can also result in asbestosis, recognized by scar-like tissue developing in the lungs, making education about this issue crucial.

Symptoms and Long-Term Effects

Symptoms associated with diseases caused by asbestos may take years to manifest, meaning those exposed are advised to remain vigilant for any signs of illness. To assist individuals concerned about possible exposure, the DEQ has arranged for contractors to facilitate the collection of any contaminated furniture and personal belongings.

If individuals have questions related to the safe handling and disposal of these items or wish to report any hazardous materials, they can contact the DEQ through the email address deq.nwrasbestos@deq.oregon.gov.

Resources for Further Information

For those seeking health-related information regarding asbestos exposure, the OHA can be contacted directly at ehap.info@odhsoha.oregon.gov or by phone at 971-673-0440. Additionally, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry offers a wealth of knowledge regarding asbestos and associated health risks.

Andrea Hamberg, the Multnomah County Environmental Health Services Director, has highlighted the importance of community awareness and is dedicated to disseminating crucial information to all affected individuals. Everyone who visited the affected areas should remain alert and proactive in ensuring their safety and the well-being of others.