Asbestos in Construction
What is Asbestos Safety?
When discussing asbestos in construction, asbestos safety refers to the protocols, protective measures, and regulatory practices that prevent asbestos exposure in high-risk environments. In industries like construction, manufacturing, and general industry, workers may unknowingly come into contact with asbestos fibers, a serious health hazard linked to lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural mesothelioma.
These fibers are typically found in older construction materials that are no longer in good condition. Typically, older materials that crumble easily or have been impacted by tools like saws or sanders release asbestos fibers that are hazardous air pollutants.
While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put chrysotile asbestos regulations in place preventing its current use, it’s still relatively common. That’s because many asbestos-containing materials are still found in construction materials used in older buildings, especially in asbestos fireproofing, insulation, ceiling tiles, brake linings, and asbestos cement sheets. As a result, these risks persist on many modern job sites.
Why Asbestos Safety Still Matters Today for Industrial and Construction
Workers
Despite regulatory advances, asbestos workers, construction workers, and industrial workers continue to face exposure risks during demolition, renovation, and maintenance. This is especially true for projects involving public and commercial buildings. Airborne asbestos fibers can spread undetected, putting not just the person handling the asbestos products at risk, but also other affected workers, pipe fitters, sheet metal workers, tile setters, and even their family members.
The latency period for asbestos-related disease can span decades. This makes prevention essential.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
When workers are exposed to asbestos dust or asbestos-containing products, the occupational exposure can lead to devastating long-term outcomes, including multiple types of asbestos-related cancer:
- Lung cancer
- Pleural mesothelioma
- Asbestosis (an interstitial lung disease)
- Other diseases documented in occupational and environmental medicine
These illnesses are often irreversible and life-threatening, making asbestos one of the most dangerous materials found in building products.
Who Is Most at Risk of Exposure to Asbestos?
Exposure often occurs in the construction industry, particularly on projects involving older buildings, asbestos insulation, or building materials containing chrysotile, the most common type of asbestos. High-risk groups include:
- Construction trades (plumbers, electricians, carpenters)
- Pipe fitters
- Brake mechanics
- Industrial workers
- Maintenance crews
- Demolition teams
- Employees in regulated areas where asbestos hazards are known
Key Safety Measures and Controls for Occupational Safety
To protect workers, employers must follow OSHA regulations and implement strict engineering controls and work practices, including:
- Asbestos inspection
- Identifying asbestos-containing materials
- Marking regulated areas
- Providing personal protective equipment
- Monitoring air for airborne asbestos
- Training employees on the safe handling of asbestos materials
- Ensuring clear communication through hazard communication protocols
Safety protocols must extend to everyone who could be exposed to asbestos, directly or indirectly.
The Role of Employers and Safety Leaders
Construction firms and other employers are responsible for managing asbestos abatement, ensuring occupational safety, and preventing the spread of asbestos dust. This includes educating teams about the risks, aligning with EPA and OSHA standards, and ensuring access to resources like respiratory protection and real-time data on job sites.
For many construction companies, failing to mitigate these risks can result in legal action, increased compensation claims, and long-term damage to both workforce health and company reputation.
Toolbox Talks to Explore
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