Who Is At Risk for Asbestos-Related Lung Diseases?
Until the late 1970s, asbestos was widely used in many industries in the United States. During that time, workplace rules to ensure workers’ safety around asbestos weren’t required by law. Asbestos was used in or with many products. Examples include steam pipes, boilers, furnaces, and furnace ducts; wallboard; floor and ceiling tiles; wood-burning stoves and gas fireplaces; car brakes, clutches, and gaskets; railroad engines; roofing and shingles; and wall-patching materials and paints. Asbestos also was used in various other items, such as fireproof gloves, ironing board covers, cooking pot handles, and hairdryers. Anyone employed for a prolonged period in mining, milling, making, or installing asbestos products before the late 1970s is at risk for asbestos-related lung diseases. Some examples of these workers include: • Miners • Aircraft and auto mechanics • Building construction workers • Electricians • Shipyard workers • Boiler operators • Building engineers • Railroad workers In g
