Plumbers at Risk of Asbestos
Posted on: January 20, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024Plumbers are at risk of asbestos exposure from various products that were commonly used in plumbing systems. The risk arises due to the durability and heat resistance properties of asbestos, which made it a popular choice in the past. Here are some asbestos-containing products that put plumbers at risk:
- Asbestos Adhesives: Used for sealing pipes and fixtures, these adhesives can release fibers when disturbed.
- Asbestos Cement: Often used in water and sewage pipes, asbestos cement can be a source of exposure when cutting or drilling these pipes.
- Asbestos Paper: This was used for insulation and could release fibers if torn or cut.
- Block Insulation: Commonly used around boilers and pipes, disturbing this insulation can release asbestos fibers.
- Gaskets: Asbestos gaskets, used in pipe joints, can release fibers during removal or replacement.
- Joint Compounds: Used to seal joints between pipes, these compounds can be a source of exposure when disturbed.
- Pipe Coatings: Asbestos was used in coatings to protect pipes, and sanding or scraping these coatings can release fibers.
- Thermal Insulation: Applied to pipes and boilers, this insulation can release fibers if cut, removed, or damaged.
- Valves: Valves containing asbestos components can release fibers during maintenance or repair.
- Welding Rods: Some welding rods contained asbestos and could release fibers during use.
It’s important to note that many of these products are no longer used due to the known health risks of asbestos. However, plumbers may still encounter these materials in older buildings and systems. The companies that manufactured these asbestos products often knew about the health risks but continued production, leading to numerous lawsuits from exposure victims. Proper safety measures and regulations are crucial to protect workers from asbestos exposure.