Plumber
A plumber is member of a subset of construction workers that includes pipefitters and steamfitters. A plumber's duties can include the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of water, waste, and gas pipe systems for residential and smaller commercial properties. Large-scale commercial projects are handled by pipefitters, while steamfitters work with high-pressure systems. Unfortunately, because some of the materials encountered by plumbers contain asbestos and they often work in close quarters, many have suffered workplace asbestos exposure and the resulting health problems. Asbestos building materials, when aged or disturbed, can release asbestos fibers and dust into the air. When inhaled, these fibers can create a number of health problems, such as asbestosis and the following cancers: mesothelioma, lung, esophageal, gastrointestinal, laryngeal, and pharyngeal.
Plumbers at High Risk for Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
Plumbers, who worked from about 1940 to 1980, are at the highest risk for asbestos exposure because, as mentioned above, a variety of the construction materials used by plumbers during this time period contained asbestos. For years, asbestos was used in pipes and pipe insulation for its fire and heat resistant properties. Other unique qualities that led to widespread use of asbestos were its resistance to electrical and chemical damage and the benefits of sound absorption and tensile strength. Unfortunately for many plumbers, asbestos fibers can be dispersed into the air at construction sites when materials like pipes or insulation are cut, shaved or drilled with tools to fit specific dimensions. Even workers who did not work directly with these materials are still at risk because the fibers can float through the air for long periods of time.
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Asbestos-Containing Products Encountered by Plumbers
• Asbestos insulation
• Gaskets
• Pipe block
• Pipe coating
• Cement insulation
• Drywall and plaster
• Asbestos paper
A more exhaustive list of the dangerous products used in the construction industry can be found on our asbestos-containing products page.
Modern Plumbers are Still at Risk for Asbestos Exposure
Plumbers continue to face the risks associated with asbestos exposure. In fact, it has been estimated that 1.3 million workers in the construction industry are still exposed to asbestos annually. Plumbers need to remain aware when replacing, repairing, or demolishing older pipe systems because of the different asbestos-containing products that may be present. Also, although the United States began regulating asbestos in the 1970’s, it has not been banned entirely. Two-thirds of the modern asbestos-containing products are construction materials, although they are typically labeled as such.
Often modern plumbers are not taught the proper safety training or given the required equipment to protect themselves from the dangers of asbestos. A basic precaution is wearing a ventilator or safety mask to avoid inhaling asbestos dust. Plumbers should also be educated on the identification of asbestos containing products and the proper methods of handling disposal.
Were You Exposed to Asbestos While Working as a Pipefitter? Mesothelioma Attorneys May Be Able to Help
It is recommended that people who have spent a significant period of time working as a plumber get a full physical evaluation by a medical doctor. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, often takes 15-40 years to manifest and the life expectancy of a victim is around a year post-diagnosis. Thus, it is important to catch the disease in its early stages. At-risk workers should pay close attention to any mesothelioma symptoms which include fluid in the lungs, chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and believe you were exposed to asbestos working as a plumber, a mesothelioma settlement is something you may be entitled to. To learn more about your legal options and if mesothelioma attorneys may be able to assist you with your situation, please contact us for a free legal consultation.