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Electricians and Pleural Mesothelioma

Electricians are often called upon to maintain and improve electrical wiring systems in a variety of locations. Their job may entail upgrading wiring, installing new electrical outlets or repairing damaged wiring. Depending on the location of their task, exposure to asbestos may be a serious risk if the necessary precautions are not taken.

Electricians and Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure is the cause of several asbestos-related conditions, including pleural mesothelioma. This rare cancer affects between 2,000 and 3,000 people in the United States each year and these numbers are expected to climb within the next 10 years. Pleural mesothelioma can occur anywhere between 20 and 50 years after someone has been exposed to asbestos. While not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop pleural mesothelioma, extreme caution should be taken when working around asbestos-containing materials.

Exposure to asbestos can occur by either inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers. This most often occurs after asbestos-containing materials have been damaged or disturbed. For electricians, their jobs may require them to remove asbestos-containing materials in order to reach electrical wiring or systems. Such materials may include plaster, ceiling tiles, electrical ducts, insulation and drywall. The improper removal or cutting of these materials may result in airborne asbestos fibers.

Older homes built during the 1960s, 70s and 80s are prime locations where electricians may be exposed to asbestos. Throughout these decades, the use of asbestos in construction materials was very high and homes that have not been remodeled or renovated may still contain asbestos-laden products. When performing a job within an older home, electricians should be extra careful while working in attics and around walls or ceilings.