Protective Clothing & Textiles

Overview of Asbestos in Protective Clothing and Textile Products

Asbestos was widely used in protective clothing and industrial textile products due to its fire resistance, durability, and heat insulation properties. These textiles were essential for fireproof clothing, industrial safety gear, and high-temperature insulation in environments where workers faced intense heat, flames, and chemical exposure. Asbestos fibers were woven into fire-resistant fabrics, gloves, aprons, welding blankets, and industrial insulation materials, making them a critical component in firefighting, metalworking, shipbuilding, and manufacturing.

Asbestos textiles included fire-resistant garments, ropes, blankets, and insulation wraps, which were commonly used in high-temperature work environments. Firefighters, foundry workers, and welders relied on asbestos protective clothing to shield themselves from burns, molten metal, and extreme heat. Additionally, asbestos textiles were used in packing materials, gaskets, and sealing applications where high heat resistance was required.

Why Was Asbestos Used in Protective Clothing and Textile Products?

Asbestos was incorporated into protective clothing and textile products due to its exceptional heat resistance and durability, making it ideal for demanding industrial environments:

Heat and Fire Resistance – Asbestos textiles were renowned for their ability to withstand extreme temperatures, direct flames, and prolonged heat exposure without igniting or degrading. This made them essential for applications such as firefighter suits, welding blankets, industrial aprons, and other protective gear. Additionally, asbestos fabrics served as thermal barriers in high-temperature machinery, steam pipes, and other equipment requiring reliable insulation.

[Learn more about the heat and fire resistance of asbestos.]

Durability and Strength – The inherent strength of asbestos fibers reinforced woven textiles, ropes, and insulation materials, making them highly resistant to wear, tearing, and mechanical stress. This durability ensured long-lasting performance in harsh industrial conditions.

[Learn more about the strength and durability of asbestos.]

Chemical and Moisture Resistance – Asbestos textiles were often employed in environments where exposure to chemicals, oils, and water was common. Their resistance to corrosion and degradation made them suitable for use in chemical plants, oil refineries, and other industrial settings.

[Learn more about the chemical resistance of asbestos.]

Flexibility and Versatility – Lightweight and adaptable, asbestos fabrics could be woven, layered, or treated to meet a wide range of applications. These included fireproof gloves, coats, curtains, insulation wraps, and other specialized products designed to provide both protection and functionality in various industries.

Because of these properties, asbestos textiles and protective gear were widely used in firefighting, foundries, power plants, shipbuilding, and chemical processing plants. Workers who handled molten metal, worked near open flames, or operated high-temperature equipment relied on asbestos garments and insulation blankets for protection. Asbestos rope and cloth wraps were also used for industrial pipe insulation and sealing high-temperature machinery.

However, despite their effectiveness, asbestos-containing protective clothing and textiles pose severe health risks. These materials were often highly friable, meaning they could easily shed fibers when worn, handled, or disturbed. Workers who regularly used asbestos gloves, coats, or blankets unknowingly inhaled asbestos dust, leading to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. As awareness of these dangers grew, asbestos textiles were phased out in favor of safer alternatives like aramid (Kevlar), fiberglass, and carbon fiber fabrics.

Types of Asbestos Used in Protective Clothing and Textiles

The use of asbestos in protective clothing and textiles was extensive due to its unique properties, including fire resistance, heat insulation, and chemical stability. These characteristics made asbestos an essential material for manufacturing garments and fabrics designed to protect workers in high-risk environments. Two primary types of asbestos were commonly utilized in the production of protective clothing and textiles:

Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Chrysotile was the most widely used type of asbestos in protective clothing and textiles. Its fine, flexible fibers could be spun and woven into fabrics, making it ideal for creating fireproof garments, gloves, and aprons. Chrysotile’s ability to withstand high temperatures and its adaptability for blending with other fibers allowed for the production of durable and heat-resistant textiles used in industries such as firefighting, welding, and foundries.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Crocidolite was occasionally used in protective textiles where extreme heat resistance and chemical durability were required. Its strong, needle-like fibers provided exceptional thermal insulation, making it suitable for specialized applications such as furnace linings, fire curtains, and protective hoods. However, due to its higher health risks compared to other asbestos types, its use was more limited and eventually phased out in favor of safer alternatives.

Protective clothing and textiles made from asbestos were integral to industrial safety for decades, but the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure have led to the development of non-asbestos alternatives in modern times.

Learn more about the six minerals classified as asbestos.

Common Applications of Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles

Asbestos was widely used in protective clothing and industrial textiles due to its exceptional fire resistance, heat insulation, and durability. These materials were essential in firefighting, metalworking, shipbuilding, and industrial settings, where workers were exposed to high temperatures, open flames, and molten materials.

Asbestos was woven into fire-resistant fabrics, gloves, aprons, blankets, and industrial textiles to shield workers from burns, sparks, and heat exposure. Additionally, asbestos textiles were used for insulating machinery, wrapping pipes, and creating fireproof barriers in high-risk environments.

Fire-Resistant Clothing and Protective Gear

Firefighter Turnout Gear: Asbestos fibers were woven into fireproof suits, gloves, and hoods used by firefighters and emergency responders to protect against extreme heat and flames.

Heat-Resistant Gloves and Mitts: Asbestos gloves were used in metal casting, glassblowing, welding, and foundries where workers handled molten materials.

Aprons, Coats, and Sleeves: Workers in boiler rooms, refineries, and welding shops wore asbestos aprons and coats to shield themselves from burns.

Fireproof Blankets and Industrial Shields

Welding Blankets and Curtains: Used in factories, welding shops, and foundries to contain sparks, slag, and extreme heat exposure.

Fireproof Insulation Wraps: Asbestos textiles were wrapped around high-temperature pipes, furnaces, and industrial ovens to prevent heat loss and protect workers.

Industrial and Mechanical Applications

Rope, Wick, and Cord Insulation: Asbestos fibers were woven into heat-resistant ropes, wicks, and cords for use in kilns, furnaces, and turbines.

Machinery and Equipment Insulation: Asbestos textiles were used to insulate machinery, engines, and heavy-duty industrial equipment against high temperatures and fire risks.

Shipbuilding and Marine Fireproofing

Marine Fireproofing: Ships used asbestos-reinforced fabric wraps and insulation blankets to protect engine rooms and bulkheads from fire spread.

Protective Gear for Shipbuilders: Asbestos gloves, aprons, and suits were used by shipyard workers to handle hot materials and welding equipment.

Learn more about how various industries utilized asbestos.

Types of Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles

Below are the primary types of asbestos protective clothing and textiles and their common applications.

Fire-Resistant Protective Clothing: Asbestos fibers were woven into fireproof clothing to protect workers from extreme heat and flames.

Firefighter Turnout Gear – Asbestos was used in fire-resistant coats, hoods, gloves, and pants to protect firefighters from extreme heat exposure.

Heat-Resistant Gloves and Mitts – Used in metal casting, welding, and foundries to shield hands from burns and molten metal splashes.

Industrial Aprons, Coats, and Sleeves – Worn by boiler workers, welders, and refinery workers to shield against heat, sparks, and chemicals.

Heat-Resistant Blankets and Shields: Asbestos textiles were used to create protective barriers against flames, heat, and molten metal in industrial and high-temperature environments.

Welding Blankets and Curtains – Used in factories, shipyards, and metalworking facilities to contain sparks, slag, and heat exposure.

Fireproof Insulation Wraps – Wrapped around boilers, furnaces, and high-temperature machinery to prevent heat loss and fire spread.

Molten Metal Splash Shields – Installed in foundries and metalworking facilities to protect workers from molten metal splashes.

Industrial and Mechanical Textile Applications: Asbestos textiles were woven into insulation materials and industrial textiles to withstand high temperatures and friction-based wear.

Asbestos Rope and Cord Insulation – Used in steam pipes, kilns, and high-temperature industrial equipment to seal joints and prevent heat escape.

Asbestos Cloth and Tape – Woven into heat-resistant covers and fireproof insulation layers for factories, shipbuilding, and automotive applications.

Asbestos Packing Materials – Applied in boilers, valves, and industrial pumps to prevent leaks and resist extreme temperatures.

Shipbuilding and Marine Fireproofing: Asbestos textiles were widely used in ships and marine structures due to their fireproofing and insulation properties.

Engine Room Fireproofing – Asbestos blankets and cloth wraps were used in naval and commercial ships to protect bulkheads and compartments from fire spread.

Marine Protective Gear – Shipyard workers wore asbestos gloves, aprons, and coveralls to handle hot materials and welding equipment.

Insulation for Boilers and Exhaust Systems – Asbestos rope and cloth were wrapped around marine boilers and exhaust pipes for thermal insulation and fire safety.

Asbestos textiles and protective clothing were widely used in firefighting, metalworking, and industrial environments due to their fireproofing and heat-resistant properties. Common applications included firefighter gear, heat-resistant gloves, welding blankets, and insulating textiles.
While these materials provided critical protection, handling or wearing asbestos textiles could release dangerous fibers, posing serious health risks.

Workers and Individuals Exposed to Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles Are at Risk of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Asbestos was widely used in fireproof clothing, gloves, blankets, and industrial textiles for firefighting, welding, foundries, and high-temperature industrial work. Workers who wore, handled, or manufactured asbestos textiles were at high risk of exposure, as these materials were often friable and easily released airborne asbestos fibers. Repeated use, washing, or deterioration of asbestos textiles made them even more hazardous over time.

Medical research has conclusively demonstrated that exposure to asbestos protective clothing and textiles can cause the following serious illnesses:

Mesothelioma: Firefighters, foundry workers, and welders who wore asbestos gloves, coats, and suits were at increased risk of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. The constant handling, flexing, and wearing down of asbestos fabrics caused fibers to shed into the air, where they could be inhaled.

Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure to asbestos fibers from fire-resistant blankets, aprons, and industrial textiles significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Workers in fireproof clothing manufacturing, textile mills, and high-temperature industries faced high exposure levels due to cutting, weaving, and stitching asbestos fibers.

Asbestosis: Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers. Workers who handled or wore asbestos clothing daily—such as firefighters, industrial welders, and foundry workers—were at risk of lung scarring and breathing difficulties due to constant fiber release from worn-down asbestos textiles.

Throat and Gastrointestinal Cancers: Asbestos fibers from handling or laundering asbestos-containing clothing could be inhaled or ingested, leading to cancers of the throat, stomach, and intestines. Factory workers who manufactured asbestos textiles, as well as family members who handled and washed contaminated work clothes, were at an increased risk of developing these conditions.

Learn More About the Diseases Asbestos Can Cause

How Asbestos Exposure Occurred from Protective Clothing and Textiles

The use of asbestos in protective clothing and industrial textiles, while effective for heat and fire resistance, posed significant health risks due to the release of asbestos fibers during various stages of their lifecycle. These fibers, when inhaled or ingested, could lead to severe health conditions such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Below is an expanded and detailed explanation of how asbestos exposure occurred from protective clothing and textiles:

Wearing and Handling Fireproof Clothing

Asbestos gloves, aprons, coats, and other protective garments were designed to shield workers from extreme heat and fire. However, these items often released asbestos fibers into the air during regular use, particularly when:

Wear and Tear: Over time, the friction and movement of wearing asbestos clothing caused fibers to break free from the fabric, especially in high-stress areas like gloves and sleeves.

Damage or Abrasion: Tears, cuts, or abrasions in the material exposed loose fibers, which could easily become airborne.

High-Temperature Environments: Heat and thermal stress could degrade the integrity of asbestos textiles, increasing the likelihood of fiber release.

Workers in industries such as firefighting, welding, and metalworking were at constant risk of inhaling these fibers during their daily tasks.

Manufacturing and Weaving Asbestos Textiles

The production of asbestos-based protective clothing and textiles was one of the most hazardous stages, as it involved direct handling of raw asbestos fibers. Workers were exposed to airborne asbestos dust during:

Cutting and Shredding: Raw asbestos fibers were cut or shredded into smaller pieces, generating significant amounts of dust.

Weaving and Stitching: The process of weaving asbestos fibers into fabric or stitching them into garments created fine, airborne fibers that were easily inhaled.

Fluffing and Carding: Preparing asbestos fibers for textile production, such as fluffing or combing, released heavy concentrations of dust into the air.

Inadequate Ventilation: Many manufacturing facilities lacked proper ventilation or dust control systems, exacerbating exposure risks for workers.

These processes placed textile workers, seamstresses, and factory employees at high risk of developing asbestos-related diseases.

Laundering and Cleaning Asbestos Garments

Secondary asbestos exposure was a significant concern for workers and their families, particularly during the laundering and cleaning of asbestos-laden protective clothing. This occurred through:

Handling Contaminated Clothing: Workers who brought asbestos garments home inadvertently exposed their families to fibers embedded in the fabric.

Washing and Scrubbing: The act of washing asbestos-contaminated clothing released fibers into the air and water, exposing laundry workers or family members performing the task.

Cross-Contamination: Washing machines and laundry areas became contaminated with asbestos fibers, creating a persistent exposure risk for anyone using the same facilities.

This secondary exposure was especially dangerous because it often affected individuals who were unaware of the risks and lacked protective measures.

Deterioration and Disposal of Asbestos Textiles

Asbestos textiles and protective clothing were not designed to last indefinitely. Over time, these materials deteriorated, becoming brittle and more prone to releasing fibers. Exposure occurred during:

Aging and Wear: Old asbestos blankets, gloves, and fabric insulation naturally degraded, shedding fibers into the air.

Improper Storage: Storing asbestos textiles in poorly ventilated or frequently accessed areas increased the risk of fiber release.

Disposal Practices: Workers tasked with disposing of asbestos textiles often handled them without proper protective equipment, leading to significant exposure. Improper disposal methods, such as burning or dumping, further released fibers into the environment.

The deterioration of asbestos textiles posed long-term risks, as fibers could remain airborne or settle in dust, creating a persistent hazard in workplaces, homes, and storage areas.

Workers who wore, handled, or manufactured asbestos textiles experienced the highest levels of exposure due to the frequent release of fibers during use and production. In addition to direct exposure, family members and laundry workers faced secondary exposure from contaminated clothing, often due to improper cleaning practices. Over time, the deterioration and improper disposal of asbestos textiles further contributed to ongoing exposure risks, even years after their initial use.

The widespread use of asbestos in protective clothing and textiles, combined with inadequate safety measures, led to severe health consequences for workers and their families. While modern regulations and the development of safer alternatives have significantly reduced these risks, the lasting impact of asbestos exposure continues to affect many individuals today.

Identifying and Handling Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles: A Comprehensive Guide
Asbestos was extensively used in the production of fire-resistant clothing, gloves, blankets, and industrial textiles due to its exceptional heat resistance and durability. These materials were commonly employed in high-risk industries such as firefighting, welding, foundry work, and other high-temperature industrial applications. Despite the known health risks, asbestos-containing protective gear and textiles may still exist in older equipment, shipyards, and industrial settings. Proper identification, handling, and disposal are essential to prevent hazardous exposure to asbestos fibers.

How to Identify Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles

Asbestos-containing textiles were widely used before the implementation of asbestos bans in many countries. These materials are often found in older industrial equipment, fireproof protective gear, and insulation wraps. Since asbestos fibers are microscopic and cannot be identified visually, laboratory testing is the only definitive way to confirm their presence. However, there are several indicators that can help identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs):

Common Signs of Asbestos in Protective Clothing and Textiles

Age of the Equipment or Clothing: Protective gear and industrial textiles manufactured before the 1990s are likely to contain asbestos, as its use was widespread during this period.

Appearance: Asbestos gloves, suits, and blankets often have a woven or fibrous texture. They may also feature a thick, heat-resistant backing or metallic reinforcement for added durability.

Common Applications: Asbestos textiles were used in fire-resistant clothing, welding blankets, pipe insulation wraps, and industrial safety gear. These items were designed to withstand extreme heat and fire.

Manufacturer Labels: Some older protective clothing may have stamps, markings, or labels indicating asbestos content. Look for terms like “asbestos,” “fireproof,” or “heat-resistant” on the labels.

Testing for Asbestos

If you suspect that protective clothing or textiles may contain asbestos:

Do NOT disturb the material. Handling or wearing asbestos textiles can release hazardous fibers into the air.

Consult a certified asbestos professional. They can safely collect samples and send them to a laboratory for analysis.

Safe Handling and Removal of Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles

Asbestos-containing protective clothing and textiles are most hazardous when they are worn, washed, or deteriorated. Movement, handling, or damage to these materials can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing severe health risks. Proper precautions must be taken to minimize exposure.

When to Leave It Undisturbed:

Stored and Sealed Materials: If asbestos textiles or protective gear are stored in a sealed and undisturbed condition, they may pose little immediate risk.

Encapsulation: Encapsulation or sealing may be an option for asbestos blankets or fireproofing materials to prevent fiber release. This involves applying a specialized coating to lock in the fibers.

When Professional Removal Is Required

Deteriorating Materials: If asbestos protective clothing, welding blankets, or insulation wraps are damaged, frayed, or deteriorating, they should be professionally removed to prevent fiber release.

Laundering or Disposal: If laundering or disposing of asbestos textiles is necessary, professional abatement and proper disposal are legally required to ensure safety.

Key Safety Precautions for Handling Asbestos Protective Clothing and Textiles

To minimize the risk of exposure, follow these critical safety guidelines when dealing with asbestos-containing protective gear and textiles:

DO NOT Wear, Wash, or Repurpose Asbestos Textiles

Avoid using asbestos-containing gloves, blankets, or clothing for any purpose, as this can release fibers into the air.

DO NOT Attempt DIY Removal

Always hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor for removal. Improper handling can lead to widespread contamination.

Use Proper Protective Equipment (PPE)

When handling asbestos textiles, wear appropriate PPE, including:

Respirators with HEPA filters.

Disposable coveralls, gloves, and shoe covers.

Safety goggles to protect the eyes from dust.

Use Wet Methods

Wetting asbestos textiles with a fine mist of water can help suppress dust and prevent fibers from becoming airborne during handling.

Dispose of Asbestos Waste Properly

Asbestos protective gear and textiles must be transported and disposed of in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations. Use sealed, labeled containers for disposal.

Hiring a Certified Asbestos Abatement Professional

If asbestos-containing protective clothing or textiles must be removed or replaced, it is essential to hire an EPA-certified or state-licensed asbestos abatement professional. These experts follow strict protocols to ensure safe removal and disposal, including:

Sealing Off the Work Area

The work area is isolated with plastic sheeting and negative air pressure to prevent contamination of surrounding spaces.

Using Wet Removal Techniques

Wet methods are employed to minimize the release of airborne fibers during removal.

HEPA Filtration and Air Monitoring

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are used to capture asbestos fibers, and air monitoring ensures that fiber levels remain safe.

Safe Disposal

All asbestos-containing waste is securely packaged, labeled, and transported to designated hazardous waste facilities.

Asbestos was widely used in protective clothing and industrial textiles, including fire-resistant gloves, aprons, blankets, and insulation wraps, due to its heat resistance and fireproofing capabilities. These materials were essential in firefighting, welding, foundries, and high-temperature industrial work. However, handling, wearing, washing, or disturbing asbestos textiles released dangerous airborne fibers, significantly increasing the risk of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Workers in fire protection, shipbuilding, metalworking, and industrial manufacturing were at high risk of exposure, as asbestos fibers were easily released from woven textiles over time. If asbestos-containing protective gear still exists in an industrial setting, proper safety measures, professional testing, and appropriate disposal are necessary to prevent exposure.

Our Law Firm Assists Individuals Exposed to Asbestos Protective Clothing & Textiles

For decades, firefighters, welders, foundry workers, and industrial laborers unknowingly wore asbestos-containing protective gear and handled fireproof textiles without being warned of the dangers. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for compensation. Our law firm is committed to helping asbestos exposure victims and their families by providing legal representation in the following areas:

Asbestos Trust Claims: Many companies that manufactured or supplied asbestos-containing protective gear and textiles have set up asbestos trust funds to compensate affected individuals. If you were exposed to asbestos through fire-resistant clothing, welding blankets, or insulation wraps, you may qualify for a financial claim without needing to file a lawsuit.

Asbestos Lawsuits: Manufacturers of asbestos protective clothing and textiles knew the risks but continued using asbestos for decades. If you or a loved one has suffered due to asbestos exposure, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Asbestos Disability Claims: Workers diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits or veterans’ disability benefits if they were exposed during military or industrial service. Our legal team can help guide you through the claims process and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos protective clothing or textiles and have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we are here to help. Call us anytime at 833-4-ASBESTOS or fill out the form below for a free consultation.