Online Health
Construction is a highly dangerous industry that is very much susceptible to the chances of electrocutions, falls, falling objects, and exposure to asbestos. Though as per regulations only limited use of asbestos is allowed to be used in materials used for construction, old constructions still contain high amounts of dangerous mineral. Increased use of asbestos is also seen in some new construction materials. This overexposure to asbestos proves to be detrimental to the health of a person. It can lead to a wide range of health issues, Mesothelioma is one of them. What makes asbestos widely used in construction area? Asbestos has been widely used in the area of construction due to its affordability and availability in abundance. It has the ability to add a good amount of strength to materials and save it from fire and loss of heat. Due to these reasons, use of asbestos was increasingly used. Reasons for overexposure to asbestos Types of constructions that may contain asbestos According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration, any of the below mentioned material if created before 1981, can contain asbestos in it. The year 1990 has witnessed an increase in the illnesses caused due to increased exposure to asbestos. Roofing Siding shingles Putty, caulk, cement, plaster Vinyl flooring Spray-on coatings Ceiling tiles Thermal insulation People who are working in this construction are at a high risk for the asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. The impact of this exposure can be very detrimental to the health of the person. In some cases, due to increased exposure, it can even result to death from mesothelioma and asbestosis. Due to crushing of asbestos in manufacturing, the construction activities send fibers of asbestos into the air which when inhaled leads to severe health issues. MesotheliomaHelp.org is a recognized website that lists the symptoms, diagnosis and preventive mechanism of this deadly disease. Not conforming to prescribed regulations Another reason for increase in exposure to asbestos is due to non-compliance with the rules and regulations set by OSHA. It is a regulatory body that regulates workplace safety w.r.t asbestos exposure. Not all employers adhere to the regulations completely. Without following the regulations and making effective safety measure at the construction workplace, the entire workforce involved in the construction activity is at an increased risk of getting exposed and become sick due to it. Materials used in new construction that have asbestos Workers who are involved in new constructions are still at a higher risk of asbestos exposure because there are certain materials that contain asbestos in it. These materials include certain types of adhesives, drywall taping compounds, floor backing, insulation, roofing felt, ductwork connectors, roof coatings, cement sheets, millboard, and vinyl floor tiles. Conclusion Anyone working in the field of construction is at greatest risk of exposure to asbestos. This includes working for staff in restoration and demolition, electricians, builders, plumbers, drywall hangers, roofers, etc. To save from the risk of asbestos, it is important to learn about it and take necessary preventive measures.
