Boilermakers exposed to Asbestos
Boilermakers asbestos exposure occurs when they are around microscopic fiber particles from contaminated insulation and fireproofing materials.
Between the 1920's and the 1970's, boilers, large heating vats, and pressure vats holding liquids or gas would have used contaminated insulation and fireproofing materials. Contaminated wrapping or lagging is still found in older buildings and on old boilers as well as around the pipes that attach to them. The greatest usage was during the massive construction projects during World War II.
People who worked in boiler-related manufacturing facilities before the 1970's were probably exposed. People who installed or repaired these boilers, vats, and pipes may have been exposed. People working in buildings or areas still using older boilers may be at risk. Boilers are made to last for decades so there are still many older models in use.
People who worked in these situations without any protection or ventilation may be at high risk of developing lung and mesothelium diseases. Microscopic asbestos fiber particles also remain on work clothing brought into the home, exposing family members.
Since boilers in buildings are usually in areas with minimal ventilation, inhalation of fibers is almost guaranteed unless workers have protection.
People repairing boilers may end up grinding, sanding, and hammering and disturbing old fibers. Cleaning old parts with scraper and wire brushes, welding tube ends, repairing seams, replacing defective gaskets, safety valves or regulators, and all attached pipe repairs may involve exposure to contaminated fibers. Removing old fireproofing and insulation materials or installing refractory bricks may also disturb old fibers and allowing them to float into the air where they may be inhaled.
By the 1970's, it became obvious that there were serious and even fatal diseases associated with contaminated fireproofing and insulation materials.
These microscopic fiber particles will easily break off and float in the air for long periods of time. People can inhale them without being aware of their presence. Simply being in the area increases the risk of fiber particle inhalation.
When these particles are inhaled, they travel to the lungs where they can scar lung tissue and cause asbestosis or lung cancer. Microscopic particles will also travel to the pleural lining of the lungs-the mesothelium. There they can damage tissue and cause a fatal cancer called asbestos-lung-mesothelioma. This cancer can also spread to the abdominal and heart mesothelium.
Boilermakers asbestos exposure has decreased since the 1970's due to changes in insulating and fireproofing materials.
However, they are still at risk of developing fatal cancer.
It usually takes decades for this cancer to develop to the point where doctors can diagnose it. It is always fatal. Once diagnosed, the survival time is usually months with fewer than 30% living past two years.
Since there are now additional regulations and worker-protection education, more protection in these dangerous situations is available. Workers and their families should take advantage of all possible precautions.
