Construction Workers

One of the many industries associated with asbestos use, the construction industry relied heavily on the toxic material for dozens of functional purposes throughout recent history. Because of its adhesive and insulating properties, asbestos was a widely-used substance for laborers of many trades. Construction workers who handled asbestos-containing materials on a regular basis were unknowingly at increased risk for asbestos-related disease decades before the substance's dangers were well understood.  Despite the fact that some companies knew about the hazards of asbestos decades ago, construction workers were not always provided with the information and protective equipment required to safely handle the toxic mineral.

Construction work is considered among the most dangerous jobs in America. Part of this is because of daily hazards involving equipment and accidents, and another portion is attributed to exposure to harmful substances like asbestos. According to a published editorial in the American Journal of Public Health, debates over acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the construction industry lingered around as late as 1987. Today, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has designated specific testing procedures and established multiple standards to protect workers from asbestos exposure. These standards work in conjunction with with a variety of other protective legislative policies.

If you or a family member worked as a construction worker and later developed mesothelioma or another asbestos related disease, fill out the form on this page to receive a free packet with information about treatment options, support resources and legal rights.

Who is at Risk?

Because the world of construction involves a variety of positions and tasks, the dangers of asbestos exposure apply to all roles that fall under the construction worker umbrella. The construction industry includes a large range of laborers such as:

Workers in these occupations commonly handle asbestos products, which can include insulation, drywall, shingles, floor tiles and tape. The duration and magnitude of exposure, in addition to personal risk factors, can affect the development of asbestos diseases. Any individuals who worked in the construction positions listed above should seek regular medical screenings and proactively monitor their health.

Drywall and Demolition Workers

One of the most common asbestos-containing materials used by construction workers was drywall, as well as drywall tape and taping compounds.

Before drywall (also known as gypsum board or sheetrock) was invented in the early 20th century, interior walls were built using a time-consuming process that required each layer of materials to dry before another layer could be added. The 1916 introduction of U.S. Gypsum’s drywall drastically reduced the time needed to build walls by compressing a layer of gypsum, asbestos and other materials between sheets of heavy paper.

Drywall could be easily nailed directly onto wall studs, allowing construction workers to finish an entire room in less time than it would have taken for one layer of plaster to dry. Unfortunately, because nails penetrated the drywall after installation, drywall tapers had to follow behind the sheetrock hangers and place drywall tape over the nail heads. They then sanded these areas to a smooth finish. Fasteners, clips, studs and other securing tools are often used at that point to increase the functionality of this material, specifically in commercial or residential settings. However, this widespread use of drywall can pose a significant threat to those exposed to its contaminants.

Both drywall and drywall taping compounds that contain asbestos can crumble easily when disturbed by sanding or grinding. Microscopic asbestos particles were released into the air and easily inhaled when drywall tapers mixed powdered taping compound, cut asbestos treated tape or sanded drywall. Not only were the drywall workers exposed, but the tapers, painters and other construction workers in the area were at high risk of inhaling the fibers as well.

According to at least one study, drywall tapers experience asbestosis just as frequently as those who work with asbestos insulation. Dangerous levels of airborne asbestos at construction sites led to a high number of asbestos-related illnesses in construction workers.

Masonry Workers

Masonry workers including brick layers, stone masons and mixing operators may have also been exposed to high levels of asbestos. Prior to the 1980s, asbestos was often mixed with materials used to mold bricks due to its fire resistant properties. Asbestos was also mixed into cement and mortar compounds for the same reason.

Masonry workers often cut and shaped stone and bricks, or otherwise handled powdered mortar or cement. These activities frequently disturbed the asbestos in these materials and released fibers into the air that masonry workers could easily inhale.

Roofers and Tile Setters

Asbestos was widely used in roofing tiles, flooring and shingles. It was also sometimes mixed into adhesive and sealing compounds that were used beneath such materials on floors and roofs. Roofers and tile setters were frequently at risk of inhaling asbestos when they handled these materials.

Current Asbestos Risk for Construction Workers

While regulations were enacted to restrict the use of asbestos in modern products, construction workers may still face the risk of asbestos exposure on the job. Construction laborers often renovate older buildings and work with materials that may have been originally made with asbestos. Buildings constructed prior to the 1980s were typically made with asbestos-contaminated products. If these products are disturbed during renovations, construction workers on site may be exposed to harmful levels of airborne asbestos.

Learn About Our Doctor Match Program

If you or a family member was exposed to asbestos as a result of construction work and would like to find a specialized doctor in your area, contact the Mesothelioma Center about our Doctor Match program. We can provide free assistance to help you receive the medical attention that you deserve.

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