Top 5 Jobs at Risk for Asbestos Exposure

Common Jobs at Risk for Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure remains a serious concern in many occupational environments, such as the construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing industries. For those who worked in jobs at risk for asbestos exposure, addressing the challenges workers now face is needed to create safer occupational environments. Workers often come into contact with asbestos-containing materials during demolition, renovations, or maintenance projects. During these projects, asbestos material is often disturbed, releasing tiny fibers into the air. Without proper precautions, those who work in jobs at risk for asbestos exposure may inhale or ingest the fibers.

Once inhaled or ingested, asbestos fibers embed themselves into your lung tissues or the lining of internal organs. Over time, these fibers cause chronic inflammation and scarring, leading to life-threatening diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma. Early detection is critical for those who work in jobs at risk for asbestos exposure. The latency period often spans between 20-50 years, so those who worked around asbestos earlier on in life may now just be noticing the effects of exposure. Studies by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health note the importance of protective equipment and proper training to minimize exposure risks. In this blog, we will explore jobs at risk for asbestos exposure, issues their workers now face, and the importance of prevention. 

1. Construction Workers

Construction workers face one of the highest risks for asbestos exposure due to the extensive use of asbestos materials in buildings. Many building materials used before the 1980s, such as insulation, roofing, and cement products, contained asbestos for its fire resistance and insulation properties. Tasks like demolition, renovation, and routine maintenance of these products disturb asbestos material, releasing deadly microscopic fibers into the air.

Jobs linked to lung cancer and other asbestos-related diseases often include construction workers who worked on demolition crews, drywall installation, and roofing. The risk of developing mesothelioma is a huge concern for construction workers. Understanding the connection between asbestos and lung diseases helps those in jobs at high risk of asbestos exposure to take steps to protect themselves from asbestos-related diseases later in life. 

2. Shipyard Workers

Shipyard workers are also at high risk of asbestos exposure due to its fireproofing and soundproofing abilities. During the 20th century, engine rooms, piping systems, and shipyards contained asbestos materials. Shipyard workers often installed or repaired asbestos materials in small, poorly ventilated areas aboard ships where the toxic fibers may have unknowingly been inhaled. For example, tearing out old insulation in engine rooms increases the risk of airborne asbestos particulates. Without proper safety protocols, shipyard workers will continue to face cases of asbestos-related diseases, making awareness more important than ever. 

3. Industrial and Factory Workers

The manufacturing industry previously relied on asbestos for its heat-resistant properties. The deadly substance was often used in textiles, machinery components, and insulation. Factory workers producing asbestos-containing materials were usually in high-risk asbestos jobs, handling raw asbestos fibers or assembling products using them. For example, asbestos was commonly woven into heat-protectant fabrics used in brake linings and insulation for industrial equipment. Asbestos fibers were released into the air when assembling these products, leading to prolonged exposure. Factory workers manufacturing asbestos textiles or insulation find themselves particularly vulnerable to mesothelioma later on in life. Both the intensity and duration of exposure to asbestos increase industrial and factory workers’ chances of developing the deadly cancer.

4. Firefighters and Occupational Exposure

Firefighters face risks of asbestos exposure when responding to fires in older buildings constructed with asbestos-containing materials. Insulation, roofing, and fireproofing materials release fibers into the air when they are disturbed by flames, heat, or structural collapse. Jobs at risk for asbestos exposure include firefighters, first responders, and rescue teams. Over time, this exposure leads to asbestos-related lung diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. 

With the collapse of the World Trade Center on 9/11, firefighters were exposed to extreme levels of airborne asbestos. The towers contained asbestos fireproofing, which was released into the environment when they collapsed from the destruction. Thousands of workers at Ground Zero, along with first responders, were exposed to the fibers. Firefighters, first responders, and rescue crews should monitor mesothelioma risk factors because the long latency period means many of these heroes continue to face new diagnoses long after initial exposure.

5. Auto Mechanics and Asbestos Brake Pads

Auto mechanics are also among the jobs at risk of asbestos exposure because asbestos was extensively used in older vehicles. Due to its heat resistance properties, asbestos was often used in brake pads, clutches, and gaskets. During maintenance or repairs, such as sanding and grinding, auto mechanics disturb the harmful material. Roles at risk include break technicians, clutch specialists, and general mechanics who commonly handle these components of cars. Without proper protective equipment, these fibers were inhaled or ingested and increased the likelihood of developing asbestos-related lung diseases later in life. 

Protecting Workers from Lung Cancer and Asbestos Exposure

For those working in jobs at risk of asbestos exposure, it’s essential to understand the safety measures that may save your and your colleagues’ lives. Construction, shipbuilding, and automotive repair are only some occupations at risk for asbestos exposure, making awareness even more necessary. Personal protective equipment, such as respirators certified for asbestos protection, disposable coveralls, and thick gloves, helps prevent workers from ingesting fibers. In addition to ingesting, workers risk having the fibers settle on clothing, risking the chances of carrying the deadly fibers home to their families. 

Another beneficial step in safeguarding workers from asbestos exposure is complying with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. OSHA requires all employers to assess the risk of asbestos exposure, notify employees of regulated areas where asbestos is present, and implement control measures such as proper ventilation to reduce the chances of airborne fibers. For example, HEPA filter vacuums and wet-cleaning methods can significantly reduce the spread of asbestos dust in high-risk areas. OSHA also holds employers responsible for providing asbestos awareness training to ensure workers follow all protocols. These regulations and personal protective equipment help limit workplace exposure and prevent employees from facing long-term health complications.

What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos

If you work in a job at risk of asbestos exposure or suspect you were exposed to asbestos while at work, take proactive steps to protect your health and future. Start by scheduling a medical evaluation at a mesothelioma healthcare center. Early detection of asbestos-related diseases, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, or mesothelioma, can make a difference in what treatment options are available to you.

Our patient advocates can help you find a specialized healthcare provider who may recommend imaging to identify early warning signs. Keep detailed records of your work history, documenting jobs, locations, and dates where you may have been exposed to asbestos so medical professionals and legal experts can assess your risks. 

Consulting with an attorney with experience in asbestos-related cases can help you understand your legal rights and compensation options. Lung Cancer Center has the resources to learn more about the dangers of workplace asbestos exposure and to secure financial support for medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Don’t hesitate to reach out today to learn more about your options and get the guidance you need to protect yourself and your future.