Jobs of all kinds have exposed millions of workers to asbestos since the beginning of its use. According to the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, almost 100 occupations have been documented to expose workers to asbestos, while thirty percent of mesothelioma victims are veterans of the U.S. Military.
Here are just a few of the occupations in which asbestos exposure has been prevalent:
Construction Workers
Asbestos products were used extensively in both home and commercial construction. Fireproofing, insulation, joint compounds, plaster and patching compounds are just a few of the commonly used products that contained asbestos.
Auto Mechanics
There was extensive use of asbestos in brake pads and shoes, as well as asbestos clutch discs and linings. For mechanics, the danger from asbestos resides in asbestos fibers becoming airborne during brake, clutch, and gasket installation, removal, and inspection.
Naval Ship Builders
Those involved with the building or maintenance of ships are at risk for high doses of airborne asbestos. Commonly used around boilers and steam pipes, asbestos insulation may become air borne during simple routine maintenance.
Want to find out about more occupations in which workers have been exposed to asbestos? Visit the Asbestos Exposure page on our website.
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