Construction Dust and Asbestos Dangers

Dust on a jobsite is unavoidable in the construction industry. The materials in that dust can
come from many sources, including concrete and cement, sawdust, insulation fibers, and far
more. Prior to the 1980s, many of those materials contained a highly toxic substance known as
asbestos. From insulating cement, joint compound, and tiles to plumbing, wiring, and roofing
materials, asbestos found itself in many of these products. With the cheap cost and effective
qualities, each product became a popular choice among contractors and builders.

While construction sites have regularly had safety precautions in place, asbestos exposure was
still prominent among many on-site workers. Even if given protective equipment such as masks,
the dust would cling to the workers hair, skin, and clothes. When washing off or cleaning their
clothes later, the dust would become airborne again, exposing these individuals to the
hazardous asbestos fibers they had worked with previously. Even when not working directly
with asbestos-laden materials, those on-site still risked exposure due to the dusty nature of the
construction zones.

From homes to public and private businesses, asbestos-products were abundant. Tile layers
may have installed asbestos tiles, plumbers may have used joint compound and insulating
cement to connect pipes, and electricians often worked with asbestos insulated wiring.
Carpenters came in contact with joint compound when sanding down drywall and ceiling seams
while HVAC, air-conditioning, and furnace installers encountered a variety of asbestos materials
when installing equipment. Insulators and pipefitters on site regularly worked with asbestos-
based insulating materials and roofers frequently came in contact with asbestos roofing
materials. Even those not working directly with the products may have faced exposure due to
the airborne dust and close proximity.

Professional contractors and builders with this type of exposure may have developed breathing
issues even decades later. Long term home renovations may have also exposed those living or
working in the space to asbestos fiber, and this too could be connected to asbestos-related
illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. While the exposure may have been
decades ago, compensation may still be available. Explore our website for more information or
give our office a call to speak with a legal assistant about your options.