Types of Machine Operators and At-Risk Trades Part 1


  1. Bulldozer operators: While bulldozer operators shape and move earth, they may disturb asbestos-containing materials buried in the soil, leading to dangerous airborne exposure.
  2. Construction workers: Construction workers face asbestos exposure when demolishing, renovating, or working in older buildings with asbestos-containing insulation, roofing, and flooring materials.
  3. Crane operators: Crane operators handling materials or working on demolition sites risk asbestos exposure if the materials contain asbestos fibers that can be released into the air.
  4. Drill press operators: Drill press operators in manufacturing environments may encounter asbestos when drilling into materials that were historically produced with asbestos for added durability.
  5. Factory workers: Factory workers, especially those in older facilities, are at risk of asbestos exposure from insulation, machinery, and products that historically contained asbestos.
  6. Freight and material handlers: Freight and material handlers may unknowingly come into contact with asbestos when moving or storing older products and equipment that contain asbestos fibers.
  7. Grinding machine operators: Grinding machine operators face asbestos exposure risks when working on older equipment or materials that contain asbestos, as grinding can release dangerous fibers.
  8. Ironworkers: Ironworkers, especially those involved in the construction or renovation of older buildings, may encounter asbestos in structural materials like fireproofing sprays and coatings.
  9. Millwrights: Millwrights working with machinery and industrial equipment may be exposed to asbestos from gaskets, insulation, and other asbestos-containing components.
  10. Mixing operators: Mixing operators in industries like construction or manufacturing could be at risk if they handle materials, like cement or insulation, that historically included asbestos for strength and fire resistance.