Construction Workers& Asbestos Exposure
The construction industry has always been a high-risk industry for asbestos exposure. Over a period of decades, asbestos materials were heavily used in a wide range of construction products. Asbestos exposure is the number one cause of developing mesothelioma cancer. Construction workers that worked with asbestos-contaminated products or handled asbestos materials are at a greater risk of exposure to asbestos and possibly mesothelioma cancer.
Overview of Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
Asbestos, a mineral fiber that was used for its strength and heat resistance in several construction industries, is the only known cause of mesothelioma cancer thus far. It is a dangerous substance that has been directly linked to numerous health problems including: mesothelioma cancer, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Construction Industries and Mesothelioma Risks
Asbestos materials were heavily used in a wide range of construction industries. Construction workers at risk of asbestos related diseases include:
- Masonry workers
- Mixing operatives
- Tile setters
- Plasterers
- Roofers
- Brick layers
- Bulldozer operators
- Crane and hoist operators
- Demolition workers
- Drywall tapers Slaters
- Stone masons
- Mechanics
- Pipe installers
Workers in these occupations in particular, commonly handled asbestos materials and are at a greater risk for contracting mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos-related diseases.
On Job Asbestos Exposure
The dangers of asbestos were known in these industries for years. Some of the construction materials that contained asbestos substances until the late 70’s include:
- Ceiling tiles
- Permaboard
- Millboard
- Rollboard
- Acoustical plaster
- Insulation
- Roofing materials
- Flatboard
Asbestos Exposure Risk for Construction Workers
Today, the use of asbestos materials is restricted to protect construction workers; however construction workers may still face the risk of asbestos exposure at job sites if procedures for limiting asbestos exposure aren’t followed. The risk still remains high in the construction industry even though OSHA(Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) have regulated the use to protect construction workers from exposure to asbestos.
Construction Workers and Asbestos Exposure
During the 1980s, several buildings were made with asbestos products and materials. Construction workers face serious health dangers because they often work at sites that may have been contaminated with asbestos containing substances. If asbestos fibers are disturbed during construction, remodeling or demolition, workers at these job sites may be exposed to asbestos fibers and could be at risk for developing mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos removal can cause health hazards ifthe fibers are inhaled or ingested.
Victims Legal Rights and Asbestos Claims
If you or a loved one has been affected by asbestos, you can file an asbestos lawsuit and get compensated for your pain, suffering and medical expenses associated with this deadly disease. Contact a mesothelioma attorney in your area and get the help you need.
