If you are working on a construction project, understanding what safety measures are required can help to protect you from asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in the construction industry due to its heat-resistant properties. However, it has been linked to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis and that has resulted in asbestos claims.

These diseases can take years or even decades to develop, making it crucial for construction workers to take the necessary safety measures to protect themselves from asbestos exposure.

What is Asbestos and How Does it Affect Construction Workers?

Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals that can be found in rocks and soil. Asbestos fibres are strong, flexible, and heat-resistant, which made them a popular choice in the construction industry for many years.

It was used in a wide range of products, including insulation, roofing, and floor tiles. However, when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, the fibres can be released into the air, which can lead to serious health problems.

Construction workers are particularly at risk of asbestos exposure as they often work with materials that contain asbestos, such as insulation, roofing, and cement. When these materials are cut, drilled, or disturbed in any way, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and inhaled by workers. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Safety Measures for Construction Workers

There are several safety measures that construction workers can take to protect themselves from asbestos exposure. These include:

Identify asbestos-containing materials

The first step in protecting yourself from asbestos exposure is to identify asbestos-containing materials on the construction site. This can be done by reviewing the building plans and inspecting the materials before work begins. If asbestos-containing materials are found, they should be handled by a licensed professional.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Personal protective equipment, such as respirators and protective clothing, can help prevent asbestos fibres from entering the body. Respirators should be worn whenever there is a risk of asbestos exposure, and workers should be properly trained in how to use them.

Follow safe work practices

Safe work practices should be followed to minimise the risk of asbestos exposure. These include wetting down asbestos-containing materials before work begins, using hand tools instead of power tools, and avoiding the use of compressed air to clean up asbestos-containing materials.

Proper disposal of asbestos-containing materials

Asbestos-containing materials should be properly disposed of to prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the environment. This can be done by following state and federal regulations and hiring a licensed professional to handle the disposal.

Regular medical check-ups

Regular medical check-ups can help detect early signs of asbestos-related diseases. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to inform your doctor so that they can monitor your health and take appropriate action if necessary.

Asbestos Claims

If you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos while working in the construction industry, you may be entitled to compensation. Asbestos claims are legal actions taken by individuals who have been diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These claims can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to the illness.

It is important to note that asbestos claims have strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations. This means that if you wait too long to file a claim, you may lose your right to seek compensation. If you believe that you may have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to speak with qualified specialists as soon as possible.

Asbestos exposure in construction

Asbestos exposure can have serious health consequences for construction workers, but there are safety measures that can be taken to minimise the risk. By identifying asbestos-containing materials, using personal protective equipment, following safe work practices, and properly disposing of asbestos-containing materials, workers can protect themselves from asbestos exposure. It is also important for workers to undergo regular medical check-ups to detect early signs of asbestos-related diseases.

In conclusion, while asbestos may no longer be used in construction today, there are still many buildings that contain asbestos-containing materials. Therefore, it is important for construction workers to take the necessary safety measures to protect themselves from asbestos exposure, both now and in the future.

Please be advised that this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained legal professional. Be sure to consult a asbestos lawyer/solicitor if you’re seeking advice on making a claim. We are not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this site.