Asbestos is a carcinogenic compound that is used in many insulation, electrical and construction products. Although most manufacturers have transitioned to non-asbestos products, asbestos from prior decades continues to be found in the workplace. As a result, workers in Pennsylvania and elsewhere need to be aware of industries that have a higher risk of asbestos exposure according to the EPA.
Insulators
Insulation is often applied to piping and equipment to maintain the efficiency of operations and ensure that people are not burned by hot surfaces. Many older insulation products used to contain asbestos because this heat-resistant compound was adept at insulating surfaces. As a result, workers involved in insulation need to be aware of the risks posed by confronting older insulation products during their work.
Electricians
Electricians also have a higher chance of being exposed to asbestos because of older circuit boards, wiring, motors and other products containing asbestos. In former years, the asbestos was normally contained within the Bakelite of certain products and the insulation used in wiring. An experienced mesothelioma attorney may help clients identify the products that likely contained asbestos.
Construction workers
Many construction products used to contain asbestos, including sheet rock, joint compound, flooring materials, roofing shingles, siding products, caulking glue and other items. This is because asbestos was thought to make products fire-resistant. As a result, if anyone encounters older construction products in the course of their employment, they should use caution to ensure that workers are properly protected.
Plumbers and related trades
Many plumbing products including pumps, valves, steam traps and related items used to contain asbestos. The asbestos was mainly found on the insulation that covered such products and on gasketing material that was used to assemble the items. As a result, anyone who encounters older versions of such products and other similar items at work should fully understand their risk of exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos exposure on the job can lead to mesothelioma and other complications. An attorney may help workers get compensation.