Steamfitter
Steamfitters, who largely fall into the same category as pipefitters, are a segment of contractors responsible for the design, assembly, installation, inspection and maintenance of high-pressure pipe systems, most often in manufacturing facilities or commercial buildings. Steamfitters work on pipe systems that transport a variety of substances including water, steam, air, gas, chemicals, and waste. Unfortunately, because some of the products encountered by steamfitters contain asbestos and they work in very close quarters, many have suffered occupational asbestos exposure and the resulting health problems. Asbestos-laden construction materials can release fibers and dust into the air when disturbed. Inhalation of the fibers can lead to a number of health problems that include asbestosis and the following cancers: mesothelioma, lung, esophageal, gastrointestinal, laryngeal, and pharyngeal.
In addition, many steamfitters worked on ships and in shipyards, primarily in engine rooms where a large amount of asbestos insulation was present.
Steamfitters at High Risk for Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
Steamfitters, who worked from about 1940 to 1980, have the greatest risk for asbestos exposure because, as mentioned earlier, a variety of the materials used during this time period have some percentage of asbestos. Asbestos was utilized so often because of its resistance to electrical and chemical damage and the benefits of sound absorption and tensile strength. Asbestos fibers can be disturbed into the air at construction sites when many of these products are cut, shaved or ground with power tools to fit specific dimensions. Even workers who did not work directly with these materials are still at risk because the fibers can float through the air for long periods of time.
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Asbestos-Containing Products Encountered by Steamfitters:
• Asbestos paper
• Asbestos insulation
• Gaskets
• Amosite sheeting
• Laminated asbestos felt
• Joint compound
• Asbestos tape
• Asbestos canvas
• Paints with asbestos
For a more exhaustive list, check out our asbestos containing products page.
Modern Steamfitters are Still at Risk for Asbestos Exposure
Steamfitters continue to face the risks associated with asbestos exposure. It has been estimated that 1.3 million workers in the construction industry are still exposed to asbestos annually. Steamfitters need to be careful when replacing, repairing, or demolishing older pipe systems because of the different asbestos-containing products that may be present. Also, although the United States began regulating asbestos in the 1970’s, it has not been entirely banned. Two-thirds of the modern asbestos-containing products are construction materials, although they are typically labeled as such.
Often modern steamfitters are not properly trained on safety procedures or equipped to protect themselves from the dangers of asbestos. A basic precaution is wearing a ventilator or safety mask to avoid inhaling asbestos dust. Steamfitters should also be educated on the identification of asbestos containing products and the proper methods of handling disposal.
Were You Exposed to Asbestos While Working as a Steamfitter? Mesothelioma Law Firms May be Able to Assist You
It is recommended that workers who have spent a significant period of time employed as a steamfitter get a full physical evaluation by a medical doctor. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, often takes 15-40 years to manifest and the life expectancy of a victim is around a year post-diagnosis. Thus, it is important to identify the disease in its early stages. At-risk workers should pay close attention to any mesothelioma symptoms which include fluid in the lungs, chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and believe you were exposed to asbestos working as an HVAC mechanic, you may be entitled to a mesothelioma settlement. To learn more about your legal options and what mesothelioma law firms may be able to do for you, please contact us for a free legal consultation.