Steel Mill Workers

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, American businessman Andrew Carnegie produced steel cheaply and quickly. The steel itself became less expensive, making it more profitable to produce and that helped spur the growth of cities. The low cost, however, was only possible due to the low wages (barely above the poverty level) and grueling working conditions of steel mill workers. Protective gear was minimal, and accidents were common in the hot, chaotic mills. Workers were exposed to dust, fumes, dangerous equipment and other hazards while working 12-hour shifts, and most did not take breaks from the strenuous manual labor.

Although conditions and wages for steel mill workers improved over time, the steel industry has experienced more modern problems. Because steel is used in everything from skyscrapers to light bulbs, the industry serves as a good indicator of economic prosperity. In 2009, it was deemed the industry to watch during the recession. Accordingly, as the U.S. and world economies recovered, so did the steel industry. After a major slump, global steel production hit a record high in 2011 and reached the unprecedented monthly total of 130 million metric tons.

Steel Mill Workers and Asbestos Exposure

An issue of particular concern to steel mill workers is the threat of asbestos exposure on the job. Steel mills are generally housed in older structures that date back to the 1970s or earlier. Often, these older sites were constructed with asbestos and contained asbestos insulation. What’s more, some workers wore protective clothing made with asbestos fibers and textiles. Asbestos was prized for its inexpensive cost and supreme durability, making it a common choice for insulator material. The mineral was especially preferred in mills and factories, where it was common for equipment to reach exceptionally high temperatures.

Common applications of asbestos in steel mills prior to the 1980s include:

• Protective clothing
• Equipment insulation
• Machinery
• Siding and roofing materials

Resources for Steel Mill Workers

Overall asbestos exposure in the workplace has declined since the 1970s after the U.S. government began to regulate the mineral’s use. But asbestos-related illnesses – such as mesothelioma – can develop over many decades, and it can take up to 50 years for symptoms to be experienced (see Mesothelioma Latency Period).

If you worked in a steel mill prior to the 1970s, you may have been exposed to asbestos. If you were, that places you at greater risk of developing mesothelioma or asbestosis, an inflammatory lung condition caused by asbestos exposure (see Asbestos Exposure for more information). It is important to have regular medical exams and note any respiratory problems. Regular monitoring of your health may lead to an earlier diagnosis, which can translate into a longer life expectancy.

Asbestos.com has a complimentary packet that gives you additional information about asbestos, exposure to it, mesothelioma and other related questions. Click here and get a free copy mailed to you overnight.