Asbestos Exposure and Drywall Workers: Risks and Prevention

Why Asbestos is Useful for Drywall Workers

Drywall installation is a common occupation in the construction industry. It involves the installation of gypsum-based boards, commonly known as drywall or sheetrock, to create walls and ceilings. In the past, many drywall products contained asbestos as a strengthening agent or as a fire-resistant material. Asbestos provided added durability, weather resistance, and the ability to withstand heat, rust, and chemicals. However, the use of asbestos in drywall products has significantly declined in recent years due to its recognized health risks. Here is a breakdown of the reasons why asbestos use was so popular:

• Asbestos was used in drywall products as a strengthening agent, improving their structural integrity.

• Asbestos provided fire-resistant properties to drywall, reducing the risk of fire spreading within buildings.

• Asbestos enhanced the durability of drywall, allowing it to withstand wear and tear over time.

• Asbestos-containing drywall had excellent insulation properties, providing thermal and sound insulation for buildings.

• Asbestos increased the weather resistance of drywall, making it suitable for various environmental conditions.

• Drywall workers benefited from the added strength and stability that asbestos provided during installation processes.

• Asbestos in drywall contributed to the overall safety and longevity of buildings where it was used.

Protective Measures and Preventive Steps

The risks associated with asbestos exposure have prompted the implementation of protective measures for drywall workers and other construction professionals. Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a crucial role in minimizing exposure. Workers should wear respiratory masks specifically designed to filter out asbestos fibers. Additionally, protective clothing, such as disposable coveralls made from materials like Nomex, can prevent fibers from adhering to one’s clothing and skin.

Furthermore, proper training and education about asbestos risks are vital for drywall workers. They should be made aware of the potential presence of asbestos in older buildings and take appropriate precautions to avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials during construction or renovation. Adherence to safety guidelines and regulations, such as wetting down materials before removal to minimize dust, can also help reduce the release of asbestos fibers into the air.

Lingering Risks and Second-Hand Exposure

Even though significant efforts have been made to reduce asbestos use and exposure, there are still lingering risks associated with asbestos-containing materials. These risks are particularly relevant to drywall workers and their families. Here, we will explore the concept of lingering risks and the potential for second-hand exposure to asbestos.

Ongoing Risks

Asbestos fibers have a long lifespan and can persist in the environment for extended periods of time. If a building or structure contains asbestos-containing materials, there is a risk of fibers being released into the air.

Drywall workers may encounter asbestos during the demolition or renovation of older buildings that were constructed before the dangers of asbestos were fully understood. Disturbing or damaging asbestos-containing materials can release fibers into the air, putting workers at risk.

Drywall workers who were employed in the past when asbestos was commonly used may have experienced direct exposure to asbestos fibers at higher levels than they do today. These individuals are at a significant risk of developing asbestos-related diseases even if they are no longer in direct contact with asbestos.

Second-Hand Exposure

Second-hand exposure occurs when individuals come into contact with fibers indirectly through another person. Family members of drywall workers may encounter second-hand exposure when asbestos fibers are brought home on work clothing or equipment.

Children of drywall workers are particularly vulnerable to second-hand exposure. They may unknowingly come into contact with asbestos fibers present on their parent’s clothing or through other means, such as playing in contaminated areas or coming into contact with materials brought home from work. Their inability to protect themselves against exposure elevates risk of developing an asbestos-related disease at some point in their lifetime.

The latency period of asbestos-related diseases further complicates the issue of second-hand exposure. Symptoms may not manifest until many years later, making it difficult to associate health problems with past exposure.

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Second-hand asbestos exposure is still asbestos exposure.

It is crucial to recognize the potential risks of lingering asbestos and second-hand exposure and take appropriate precautions to minimize these risks. 

Drywall workers should follow safety guidelines and regulations when working in older buildings or during the removal of asbestos-containing materials. Again, this includes wetting down materials to reduce the release of asbestos fibers and using proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Removing work clothing before returning home and showering, if possible, can also greatly reduce the risk of exposing loved ones.

1 in 5

In studies of asbestos disease, 1 in 5 cases of asbestos exposure were caused by secondary asbestos exposure.3

Even people with secondary asbestos exposure – families of industrial workers – should get tested for asbestos-related diseases and indicators like lung scarring.

If individuals, including family members, who have been exposed to asbestos develop symptoms or health issues, they should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about their concerns. Early detection and intervention is vital for managing asbestos-related diseases and improving outcomes.

Raising awareness about ongoing risks and second-hand asbestos exposure is essential to ensure the well-being of drywall workers and their families. By implementing preventive measures and promoting education, we can mitigate potential harm in the drywall industry.

People who worked in these industries prior the mid-1980s have a higher risk of developing asbestos-related diseases:

Unfortunately so do their families.

Legal Options and Asbestos Trusts

For those affected by asbestos-related diseases, there are legal options available to seek compensation. Asbestos claims can be filed against responsible parties, including manufacturers, contractors, and employers, to hold them accountable for the harm caused by exposure. Asbestos claims generally involve pursuing legal action to obtain financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

In addition to pursuing claims through litigation, there are asbestos trust funds established by bankrupt asbestos companies. These trusts were created to provide compensation to individuals impacted by the work they did. They offer an alternative avenue for seeking compensation, particularly when the responsible companies are no longer operational or have insufficient funds to cover all claims.

Drywall workers and their families may be eligible to file claims with asbestos trusts, as the risk of exposure to asbestos was prevalent in their occupation. In fact, many trusts include provisions to compensate individuals exposed to asbestos before 1982, even if their exposure was second-hand and/or occurred during childhood.

It is important to consult with an experienced asbestos attorney to understand the legal options available and navigate the complex process of filing an asbestos claim. An attorney can provide guidance on gathering evidence, assessing the viability of a claim, and pursuing compensation through the appropriate channels.

Do You Qualify For Compensation?

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