Utility

Introduction to Asbestos Use in the Utility Industry

The utility industry, encompassing sectors such as electricity, water, and gas, has long been a cornerstone of modern infrastructure. This industry is responsible for delivering essential services that power homes, businesses, and industries. During the 20th century, the rapid expansion of utility networks required materials that could withstand extreme conditions, including high temperatures, pressure, and exposure to corrosive substances. Asbestos, with its unique properties, became a critical material in the construction and maintenance of utility systems, particularly in insulation, piping, and protective coatings.

Asbestos was widely used in utility infrastructure due to its ability to enhance the durability and safety of essential components. From power plants to water treatment facilities, asbestos-containing materials were integrated into various systems to ensure reliable and efficient operation. However, the extensive use of asbestos in the utility industry also posed significant health risks to workers and the surrounding communities, as the fibers could become airborne during installation, maintenance, or demolition activities.

Why Asbestos Was Used in the Utility Industry

Asbestos was favored in the utility industry for its exceptional heat resistance, insulating properties, and durability. In power plants, asbestos was used extensively to insulate boilers, turbines, and steam pipes, where it helped to prevent heat loss and protect workers from burns. Similarly, in water and gas systems, asbestos-cement pipes were widely employed due to their strength, resistance to corrosion, and ability to handle high-pressure conditions. These properties made asbestos an indispensable material for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of utility infrastructure.

Another key reason for asbestos’s use in the utility industry was its cost-effectiveness and versatility. Asbestos-containing materials, such as gaskets, seals, and coatings, were used to enhance the performance of utility systems while keeping costs manageable. However, the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure, particularly for workers involved in installation and maintenance, eventually led to stricter regulations and a shift toward safer alternatives. Today, the utility industry has largely transitioned away from asbestos, but its legacy remains in older infrastructure that still requires careful management.

Types of Asbestos Used in the Industry

The utility industry extensively utilized asbestos fibers due to their exceptional heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties, which were critical for maintaining safety and efficiency in high-temperature and high-pressure environments:

Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Chrysotile was the most commonly used type of asbestos in the utility industry. Its flexibility and ability to be woven into various forms made it ideal for insulating pipes, boilers, and turbines. It was also used in gaskets, seals, and cement products to provide thermal insulation and prevent heat loss in power plants and other utility facilities.

Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Amosite was valued in the utility industry for its superior strength and heat resistance. It was frequently used in thermal insulation materials for steam pipes, boilers, and other equipment exposed to extreme temperatures, ensuring operational safety and efficiency.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Crocidolite was occasionally used in the utility industry for its exceptional chemical resistance and fireproofing properties. It was incorporated into insulation materials, protective coatings, and cement products, particularly in environments where exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme heat was a concern.

The utility industry relied on asbestos to enhance the safety and performance of its infrastructure, particularly in high-temperature and high-pressure applications. However, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to the adoption of safer alternatives and stricter regulations to protect workers and the environment.

Common Types of Asbestos Products in the Utility Industry

The utility industry relied heavily on asbestos-containing materials due to their durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. These products were used extensively in power plants, water treatment facilities, and other utility infrastructures to ensure safety and efficiency. Common types of asbestos products in the utility industry include:

Asbestos Pipe Insulation: Asbestos pipe insulation was a widely used product in the utility industry, primarily for insulating steam, water, and gas pipes. Its primary purpose was to prevent heat loss during the transportation of high-temperature fluids, thereby improving energy efficiency. Additionally, asbestos pipe insulation provided a critical layer of fire protection, as its heat-resistant properties helped to minimize the risk of fire hazards in industrial and utility settings. This insulation was particularly valued for its durability and ability to withstand extreme temperatures, making it a staple in utility infrastructure for decades.

Asbestos Cement Pipes: Asbestos cement pipes were another common product in the utility industry, especially in water supply and sewage systems. These pipes were favored for their exceptional strength, resistance to corrosion, and relatively lightweight nature compared to traditional metal pipes. Their non-corrosive properties made them ideal for carrying water and other fluids, as they did not degrade over time or contaminate the contents with rust. Asbestos cement pipes were also easy to install and maintain, which contributed to their widespread adoption in utility networks, particularly in areas with limited access to alternative materials.

Asbestos Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos gaskets and seals were essential components in the utility industry, used in boilers, turbines, and valves to ensure leak-proof operation under high temperatures and pressures. These gaskets were highly effective in creating tight seals, preventing the escape of steam, gas, or liquids from critical equipment. Their heat-resistant and durable nature made them indispensable in maintaining the efficiency and safety of utility systems. Asbestos gaskets were particularly valued in high-pressure environments, where their ability to withstand extreme conditions ensured reliable performance over extended periods.

Asbestos Millboard: Asbestos millboard was commonly employed for thermal insulation in electrical panels and around high-temperature equipment in the utility industry. This thick, paper-like material was composed of a high percentage of asbestos fibers, which provided excellent heat resistance and insulating properties. It was often used to line electrical panels, protecting them from heat damage and reducing the risk of electrical fires. Additionally, asbestos millboard was applied around high-temperature machinery to shield surrounding areas from heat exposure, making it a versatile and practical solution for utility operations.

Asbestos Fireproofing Materials: Asbestos fireproofing materials were extensively applied to structural components and equipment in the utility industry to enhance fire resistance. These materials were used to coat beams, columns, and other structural elements, providing a protective barrier against fire and heat. In addition to structural applications, asbestos fireproofing was also applied to equipment and machinery to safeguard them from potential fire damage. The fire-resistant properties of asbestos made it a critical material for ensuring the safety and longevity of utility infrastructure, particularly in environments where fire hazards were a significant concern.

Companies That Manufactured Asbestos Products

Several companies were prominent in producing asbestos-containing materials for the utility industry. These include:

Johns-Manville Corporation: The Johns-Manville Corporation was a leading supplier of asbestos-containing materials for the utility industry, offering a wide range of products such as asbestos pipe insulation, cement pipes, and gaskets. The company’s asbestos pipe insulation was particularly valued for its ability to prevent heat loss and provide fire protection in steam, water, and gas pipelines. Johns-Manville’s asbestos cement pipes were widely used in water supply and sewage systems due to their strength, resistance to corrosion, and durability. Additionally, the company’s asbestos gaskets were essential components in boilers, turbines, and valves, ensuring leak-proof operation under high temperatures and pressures. Johns-Manville’s extensive product line and reputation for quality made it a dominant player in the asbestos industry for decades.

Keasbey & Mattison Co.: Keasbey & Mattison Co. was another prominent manufacturer of asbestos-containing materials, particularly known for its asbestos insulation and cement products. The company’s insulation materials were widely used in utility infrastructures to protect pipes and equipment from heat and fire hazards. Keasbey & Mattison also produced asbestos cement products, which were utilized in various utility applications for their durability and resistance to environmental factors. The company’s contributions to the utility industry were significant, as its products helped improve the efficiency and safety of utility operations. However, like many asbestos manufacturers, Keasbey & Mattison faced scrutiny and legal challenges as the health risks associated with asbestos became more widely recognized.

Eagle-Picher Industries: Eagle-Picher Industries played a key role in supplying asbestos-containing materials to the utility industry, particularly in the form of insulation and fireproofing products. The company’s asbestos insulation was used extensively in power plants and other utility facilities to protect pipes, boilers, and equipment from heat and fire. Eagle-Picher also manufactured fireproofing materials that were applied to structural components and machinery to enhance fire resistance. These products were critical in ensuring the safety and reliability of utility operations, especially in high-temperature environments. Despite its contributions to the industry, Eagle-Picher eventually ceased manufacturing asbestos-containing products as the health hazards of asbestos became undeniable.

Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corporation: Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corporation was a major provider of asbestos-containing insulation products for the utility sector. The company’s insulation materials were widely used to protect pipes and equipment from heat loss and fire hazards. Owens-Corning’s products were known for their effectiveness and durability, making them a popular choice in utility applications. Over time, the company expanded its production capacity to meet the growing demand for insulation materials, including those containing asbestos. However, as awareness of asbestos-related health risks increased, Owens-Corning faced significant legal and financial challenges, ultimately transitioning away from asbestos-containing products.

Philip Carey Manufacturing Co.: Philip Carey Manufacturing Co. specialized in producing asbestos insulation and millboard for use in utility operations. The company’s insulation products were designed to protect pipes, boilers, and other equipment from heat and fire, ensuring the efficiency and safety of utility systems. Philip Carey’s asbestos millboard was particularly valued for its thermal insulation properties and was often used in electrical panels and around high-temperature machinery. These products were integral to the utility industry, providing reliable solutions for managing heat and fire risks. Like other asbestos manufacturers, Philip Carey eventually faced legal and regulatory challenges as the dangers of asbestos exposure became widely acknowledged.

The utility industry’s reliance on asbestos was driven by the need for materials that could withstand high temperatures and harsh conditions. However, as the health risks associated with asbestos exposure became widely recognized, the industry shifted to safer alternatives to protect workers and the public.

Utility Workers are at Risk of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Utility workers, particularly those involved in the maintenance, repair, and installation of infrastructure such as pipelines, power plants, and water systems, face a significant risk of asbestos exposure. Historically, asbestos was extensively used in the utility industry due to its exceptional heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. Medical research has conclusively demonstrated that asbestos exposure can lead to the following health complications:

Mesothelioma: Utility workers are at an elevated risk of developing mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, due to inhaling airborne asbestos fibers. These fibers were often released from asbestos-containing insulation, cement pipes, and other materials used in utility infrastructure.

Lung Cancer: The repair and maintenance of utility systems frequently involved disturbing asbestos-containing materials, such as pipe insulation, gaskets, and fireproof coatings. This disturbance released asbestos fibers into the air, significantly increasing the risk of lung cancer for workers who inhaled them. For decades, the industry failed to fully disclose the dangers of asbestos exposure, leaving workers vulnerable .

Throat Cancer: Inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers during tasks such as cutting or repairing asbestos-insulated pipes could lead to cancers of the larynx and pharynx. Poor ventilation and insufficient protective measures in the past further exacerbated this risk for utility workers .

Stomach Cancer: Workers could inadvertently ingest asbestos fibers, particularly if they ate in contaminated areas or failed to clean up properly before meals. This exposure has been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer. The dusty environment in utility work sites contributed to this risk .

Colon Cancer: Known as colorectal cancer, this condition may result from ingesting asbestos fibers. Utility workers were often exposed to asbestos during the handling and installation of asbestos-containing materials, which could contribute to the development of this type of cancer .

Asbestosis: This chronic lung disease, caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, leads to scarring of lung tissue and significant breathing difficulties. Asbestosis was a common occupational hazard for utility workers who were exposed to high levels of airborne asbestos dust during the installation and maintenance of utility systems .

The legacy of asbestos use in the utility industry continues to pose risks, particularly during the repair or demolition of older infrastructure containing asbestos. Modern safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and strict adherence to asbestos abatement regulations, are essential to protect workers from the long-term health effects of asbestos exposure.

Learn more about the diseases asbestos can cause.

Worker Tasks and Asbestos Exposure in the Utility Industry

The utility industry, encompassing power generation, water treatment, and gas distribution, relied heavily on asbestos for its heat resistance, insulation, and durability. Asbestos was widely used in equipment, infrastructure, and protective materials to manage high temperatures, prevent corrosion, and ensure operational efficiency. Workers in this industry were frequently exposed to asbestos during installation, maintenance, and repair tasks, as well as through indirect exposure from nearby operations.

Key tasks that exposed utility workers to asbestos included:

Insulating Pipes and Boilers: Asbestos was commonly used to insulate steam pipes, boilers, and turbines in power plants and other utility facilities. Workers installing, repairing, or removing insulation were at high risk of inhaling asbestos fibers released during these activities.

Maintaining and Repairing Equipment: Utility equipment, such as pumps, valves, and generators, often contained asbestos gaskets, seals, and insulation. Maintenance workers were exposed to asbestos dust when replacing or repairing these components, especially if the materials were worn or damaged.

Construction and Renovation of Facilities: Utility facilities were often constructed with asbestos-containing materials, including cement, tiles, and fireproofing sprays. Workers involved in construction, renovation, or demolition of these facilities could disturb asbestos and release fibers into the air.

Electrical Work: Asbestos was used in electrical panels, wiring insulation, and arc chutes to prevent fire hazards. Electricians working on these systems were at risk of exposure when cutting, stripping, or repairing asbestos-containing materials.

Handling Asbestos-Containing Protective Gear: Utility workers often used protective clothing, gloves, and blankets made with asbestos to shield themselves from heat and fire. Over time, wear and tear on these items could release asbestos fibers, exposing workers.

Proximity to Asbestos Work: Even workers not directly handling asbestos were at risk of exposure if they worked near others performing tasks that released asbestos fibers. Poor ventilation in utility facilities often exacerbated this risk.

The risk of take-home exposure was a significant concern for utility workers. Asbestos fibers could easily adhere to workers’ clothing, shoes, and personal items, allowing them to unknowingly bring the hazardous material into their homes. Family members were at risk of secondary exposure through activities such as shaking out or laundering contaminated clothing. This type of exposure has been linked to severe health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, highlighting the importance of workplace decontamination protocols and protective measures to safeguard both workers and their families.

Our Law Firm Assists Utility Industry Workers with Asbestos-Related Conditions

Utility workers, including those in power plants, water treatment facilities, and electrical grids, were frequently exposed to asbestos while maintaining and repairing infrastructure. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation for pipes, turbines, boilers, electrical panels, and other high-temperature equipment found in power generation and utility facilities. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers has led many utility workers to develop serious diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you may be entitled to compensation. Our law firm is committed to guiding utility industry workers and their families through the legal process, providing comprehensive support in the following areas:

Asbestos Trust Claims
Many utility companies and manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials have established trust funds to compensate workers diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases. Filing a claim with these trusts does not require a lawsuit and can provide financial relief for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. Our legal team can help determine your eligibility and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Asbestos Lawsuits
Manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing materials used in the utility industry can be held accountable through legal action. Workers exposed to asbestos while operating power plants, maintaining water treatment systems, handling electrical insulation, or working in substations may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Compensation from these lawsuits can help cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the rights of utility industry workers.

Asbestos Disability Claims
Workers diagnosed with asbestos-related conditions may qualify for Social Security disability benefits if their illness prevents them from working. Additionally, veterans who were exposed to asbestos while working in military power plants, shipboard electrical systems, or defense-related utility infrastructure may be eligible for veterans’ disability benefits. These claims provide essential financial support for affected individuals and their families.