Power Plant Workers and Asbestos Exposure:
If you worked in an American power plant at any time prior to 1980, chances are that you were exposed to asbestos. In fact, compared to others exposed in the workplace, power plant employees have been among the most at risk of mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer which may appear between 10-40 years after asbestos exposure. If you work in a power plant today, your risks are much lower, but you may still be exposed if you work with old insulation, piping, roofing, walls or other equipment without proper protection.
Why Was Asbestos so Prevalent in Power Plants?
Before asbestos was widely known to cause cancer, it was used extensively as a fireproofing material. Since power plants generate and distribute electricity to entire cities and regions, they are literally hotbeds for fire—because of the heat generated there. Prior to increased government regulations beginning in the 1980's, asbestos was used in almost every situation where the fire risk was elevated, which was nearly everywhere on the premises. Asbestos could be found in any of these places:
- Insulation for boilers, turbines and generators
- Pipe insulation
- Protective clothing, gloves and boots
- Pumps and valves
- Walls and roofs of the buildings
Technically speaking, asbestos insulation presents no risk as long as it remains undisturbed—but workers had to perform regular maintenance on insulated equipment, and these services disturbed the asbestos enough to send it airborne. Furthermore, power plants often had poor ventilation, so many workers would breathe in the asbestos particles—not just the maintenance team. The result: Widespread and repeated exposure to dangerous asbestos.
Which Power Plant Workers Are Most at Risk for Mesothelioma?
Anyone who has worked in a power plant in the 1970's and earlier should consider themselves at an elevated risk for mesothelioma. However, those working in the following capacities assumed the greatest risk:
- Electricians
- Insulators
- Machinists
- Pipefitters
- Repair technicians
- Welders
- Workers with older power plant equipment or drilling into the walls/roofs of these structures
Risk of Secondary Exposure
Power plants did more than simply expose their employees to asbestos; they frequently exposed the employee’s families and loved ones as well. Airborne asbestos particles typically settled on workers’ clothing, skin and hair, which would then be carried home with them. Thus, if you lived with a power plant worker, you may also be at risk for developing mesothelioma.
Dealing with the Risk
Being exposed to asbestos doesn’t automatically mean you’ll get sick, and in fact, many do not. However, if you’re a current or former power plant worker, or family member of one, do the following to protect yourself:
- Follow all safety protocols to avoid continued exposure.
- If you smoke, quit now. Cigarette smoking can cause lung cancer, but smoking combined with asbestos exposure makes the risk even greater, according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Get regular checkups and screenings. If you contract mesothelioma, early detection may extend your life expectancy.
Workers exposed to occupational asbestos may be entitled to compensation if they get sick with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness. For a FREE consultation, call the Madeksho Law Firm at 1-888-910-MESO, or contact us here. There is never a charge unless we obtain compensation on your behalf.
