Exposure to asbestos can lead to the development of serious health problems later in life. The overwhelming majority of people that develop asbestos-related diseases, like mesothelioma and asbestosis, were exposed to asbestos at some point during their occupational history. A number of occupations are considered to be at an increased risk for exposure to asbestos. Shipyard and metal workers are thought to be among the most likely to have been exposed to asbestos during its heyday; however, today construction workers are probably at the greatest risk for on the job exposure to asbestos.

It is estimated that over 1.3 million construction workers are exposed to asbestos each year. This exposure can occur in a number of different ways. Most buildings and many homes constructed before 1980 utilized the use of asbestos in one way or another, and anytime repairs or alterations are made to these asbestos containing structures there is a risk of exposure to asbestos. 

Prior to government regulation asbestos was used in hundreds of products associated with the construction industry. The most common use of asbestos was for insulation. The ability of the material to provide superior insulation while also being flame resistant made it a popular choice for almost any insulation application. Asbestos was used in cement to create a stronger and more heat resistant bond. Asbestos was also commonly used in floor tiles, ceiling tiles, and shingles. Plastics, paints, and sealants all utilized the use of asbestos. 

With millions of homes and buildings still littered with asbestos laden materials the risk of asbestos exposure in construction workers will be with us for some time. The government has enacted a number of regulations aimed protecting construction workers that routinely work around asbestos and creating a safer working environment for this high risk occupation.

Until the mid-1970’s asbestos was widely used in thousands of different products throughout the world. In the late 70’s federal action banned the use of asbestos in many products, but contrary to popular belief there is no official ban prohibiting the use of asbestos entirely. Today exposure to asbestos is rare and most people that are exposed to asbestos are involved in the removal process or encounter the material in older fixtures like insulation or old electrical fittings.

Most people who are affected by mesothelioma or asbestosis were exposed to asbestos through occupational of workplace exposure. Certain occupations are more prone to asbestos exposure than others. Construction workers, power plant workers, railroad workers, and shipyard workers are thought to be the highest risk of exposure; however, asbestos exposure is not limited to these occupations.

Studies have shown that about 80% of structures erected prior to 1980 used asbestos in some form in their construction. The unparalleled ability of asbestos to provide superior insulation against temperature extremes made it one of the most commonly used materials in shipyards around the world.

The insulating and fire retardant properties of asbestos made the product a common choice for use in all types of building materials. Asbestos was often used in the production of ceiling and wall tiles. Asbestos was also commonly used to make roofing and flooring materials like shingles and floor tiles. Asbestos was used in several different types of cements, spackles, and other patching materials for increased strength.

Those who worked to produce asbestos or in the application of these materials may be at an increased risk of asbestos exposure and in time mesothelioma.