A new report released by Occupational Knowledge International confirmed what mesothelioma experts and advocates have long known: construction workers face ongoing risk from asbestos concrete products, particularly from aging asbestos concrete water pipes.
Construction Workers Are at High Risk for Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Diseases
Malignant mesothelioma is considered an occupational disease, and construction workers are high on the list of jobs that put workers at risk for asbestos exposure. The study, published in the Annals of Work Exposures and Health, notes the continuing concerns stemming from repairs and removal of asbestos cement products that have been in place since before the minerals’ dangers were known.
The study noted materials that pose a particular risk for mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related diseases. They include asbestos cement pipes, which expose workers to 50 times more asbestos than the short-term limit established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Other materials of concern include asbestos boards and corrugated roofing materials, which when cut release asbestos fibers that are 24 times higher than the permissible limit.
Asbestos Cement Products Account for 90% of Global Asbestos Use
Highlighting the continuing mesothelioma risk posed by asbestos-contaminated cement products, the report noted that pipes, siding, and roofing account for more than 90% of global asbestos use. The report’s statistics stand in stark contrast to assertions made by the asbestos industry, which downplay the risk posed by legacy asbestos.
According to the author of the study, Perry Gottesfeld, “We found that exposures from asbestos cement products could be alarmingly high and certainly disproves the asbestos industry’s contention that these materials can be used in a ‘safe and responsible’ manner. The study demonstrates that there is an immediate need to ban all asbestos cement products that are sold in many countries as these are still being installed in millions of homes and commercial buildings.” Gottesfeld is the executive director of OK International.
Expert Warns of Continuing Mesothelioma Dangers
Upon reviewing the report, a subject matter expert in asbestos and asbestos litigation said, “This groundbreaking study calls for urgent action to protect workers in the construction industry from the dangers of asbestos exposure and highlights the need for stricter regulations and a complete ban on asbestos cement products. The health and well-being of workers must be a top priority in the construction sector. The risks of mesothelioma and other cancers resulting from asbestos exposure are too great and it’s vital that workers know about the importance of having annual chest x-rays to help manage the risk of contracting asbestos-related cancers down the road.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
