Potential Asbestos Exposure Risks for Electricians
Posted on: January 27, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024- Servicing Arc Chutes: Arc chutes, essential in circuit breakers for insulation and circuit protection, can be a source of asbestos exposure. These components, especially those installed before the mid-1980s, were often made using asbestos-containing plastic molding compounds. Their function is to act as a barrier between electrical contacts, mitigating high voltage sparks. However, the wear and tear or damage to these arc chutes, such as cracking from high voltage sparks, could lead to the release of asbestos dust and particles.
- Replacing Old Wire Insulation: Asbestos was a common material in wire insulation, valued for its heat resistance properties. Electricians tasked with replacing or servicing these wires may encounter asbestos. As the insulation ages, disturbing it can potentially release asbestos fibers into the environment, posing a health risk.