Construction Workers & Occupational Asbestos Exposure

Construction workers have a heightened risk of occupational asbestos exposure, as well as asbestos-related health conditions like asbestos and mesothelioma. Many construction materials have historically contained asbestos, largely due to its naturally heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant properties. When the asbestos within these materials is disturbed—which often occurs as the materials are installed, repaired, replaced, or maintained—it can release microscopic fibers, which can then be inhaled or ingested by construction workers. 

Once these fibers enter the body, they cause widespread irritation and inflammation, which can cause cell damage and even harm DNA. This, in turn, can lead to a variety of different forms of cancer, including mesothelioma, as well as other serious illnesses and health concerns.

How Construction Workers Are Exposed to Asbestos 

Throughout the 1900s, asbestos was widely used in numerous construction materials. Today, asbestos is still not banned in the United States, and it remains commonly used—though in smaller amounts—in a range of products. Though asbestos is now highly regulated in the U.S., being exposed to even small amounts of asbestos can lead to mesothelioma, asbestos, and other fatal illnesses. 

Construction workers may be exposed to asbestos in the following ways: 

• Installing asbestos-containing products/equipment 
• Repairing or working on asbestos-containing materials
• Replacing asbestos-containing materials 
• Renovating old buildings/structures 
• Completing partial and complete remodels of old buildings
• Maintaining asbestos-containing products or equipment 
• Working on job sites where asbestos-containing materials are used 

When asbestos is disturbed, it releases tiny fibers into the air. In addition to being accidentally inhaled or ingested, these fibers can also land on people, settling into their hair and clothing. In this way, construction workers may inadvertently bring asbestos fibers home, thereby exposing their families and others with whom they come into contact. Known as “secondary exposure,” this type of asbestos exposure can be extremely dangerous and may lead to numerous, serious illnesses. 

What Types of Construction Workers Are at Risk of Asbestos Exposure? 

All types of construction workers are at risk of occupational asbestos exposure. This includes laborers, contractors, subcontractors, and others on construction sites, as well as many other workers within related industries. 

Some of the many types of construction workers and construction-related workers who are at a heightened risk of being exposed to asbestos on the job include: 

At SWMW Law, we represent all types of workers within the larger construction industry who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and other related health conditions after being exposed to asbestos. If you believe that you may have a case, whether on behalf of yourself or someone you love, reach out to our team today to schedule a complimentary consultation.