Mesothelioma and Cement Workers

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Cement workers are one of the occupations most likely to have had exposure to asbestos and be at risk of contracting Mesothelioma. It is only fairly recently that asbestos has been phased out, or is being phased out. But, in the past, it was used quite widely in cement products because of its many beneficial properties.

When Were Cement Workers Exposed to Asbestos?

Asbestos cement was first manufactured in the early 1900’s and was originally used in its simple form in chimneys, dormer windows, skylights, shingles, and roofs. It was later turned into pre-fabricated products such as asbestos cement sheets. Apart from those who were exposed to asbestos cement during the time of its manufacture, asbestos cement workers were also exposed to asbestos when working on these different parts of buildings, as well as when working on other applications in factories and on ships.

The Dangers Faced by Asbestos Cement Workers

During the manufacture and application of asbestos, cement workers were exposed to a high level of asbestos dust. When this dust entered their lungs, there was an increased risk of contracting Mesothelioma, which is a deadly disease. Since asbestos cement workers were in this environment almost daily, this meant that their risk of contracting Mesothelioma was much higher than the average person who was not exposed to as much asbestos dust. Asbestos cement, once it had been applied and was in a whole, undisturbed, or unbroken state, was relatively safe to those who came in contact with it. But for those who were working with the cement in its manufacture or application, the risk of breathing in asbestos dust was still very high.

Cement workers have a number of different functions and also come in different categories. For example, the cement mason will organize the distribution of cement through the project, while a cement finisher will ensure that the finished cement looks smooth and is ready for paint or any other finishes that may be required. Although cement is often not actually visible in a building, it is a vital part of any building and holds the building together.