HVAC Mechanic
A Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Mechanics is responsible for the installation and maintenance of climate control systems in commercial buildings and private residences. Unfortunately, because some of the materials used and encountered by HVAC mechanics contain asbestos, many have suffered workplace asbestos exposure and the resulting health problems. Asbestos insulation, due to its fire resistance, is perhaps the biggest danger as for years it was used in almost every location an HVAC mechanic would work. Asbestos building materials can release fibers and dust into the air when disturbed. When inhaled, this can lead to a number of health problems including asbestosis and the following cancers: mesothelioma, lung, esophageal, gastrointestinal, laryngeal, and pharyngeal.
HVAC Mechanics at High Risk for Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
HVAC mechanics, who worked between about 1940 and 1980, are at the highest risk for asbestos exposure because, as mentioned above, a variety of the building materials used during this time period were asbestos-laden. In addition to its heat resistant properties, asbestos was used because of its resistance to electrical and chemical damage and the benefits of sound absorption and tensile strength. Asbestos fibers can be distributed into the air at construction sites when these materials are cut, shaved or ground down with power tools to fit specific dimensions. Even workers who did not work directly with these materials are put at risk because the microscopic asbestos fibers can float in the air for long periods of time.
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Top Asbestos-Containing Products Encountered by HVAC Mechanics
• Asbestos insulation
• Asbestos tape
• Asbestos pipes
• Flooring
• Ceiling tiles
• Joint compound
For a more exhaustive list, check out our asbestos containing products page.
Modern HVAC Mechanics are Still at Risk for Asbestos Exposure
Today’s HVAC mechanics continue to face the health risks associated with asbestos exposure. It has been estimated that 1.3 million workers in the construction industry are still exposed to asbestos annually. HVAC mechanics need to remain aware of any repair work on ducts or systems that were constructed before 1980. Asbestos products can age and deteriorate over time, making them more likely to crumble and create asbestos dust. Although the United States began regulating asbestos in the 1970’s, it has not been banned entirely. Two-thirds of the modern asbestos-containing products are construction materials, although they are typically labeled as such.
Often HVAC mechanics are not taught the proper safety procedures or given the required equipment to protect themselves from the dangers of asbestos. A basic precaution is wearing a ventilator or safety mask to avoid inhaling asbestos dust. HVAC Mechanics should also be educated on the identification of asbestos containing products and the proper methods of handling disposal within their particular jurisdiction. This will often mean calling a professional certified in asbestos abatement techniques.
Were You Exposed to Asbestos While Working as an HVAC Mechanic? An Asbestos Lawyer May be Able to Help
It is recommended that people who have spent a significant period of time working as an HVAC mechanic get a full physical evaluation by a medical doctor. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, often takes 15-40 years to manifest and the life expectancy of a victim is around a year post-diagnosis. Thus, it is important to catch the disease in its early stages. At-risk workers should pay close attention to any mesothelioma symptoms which include fluid in the lungs, chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and believe you were exposed to asbestos working as an HVAC mechanic, you may be entitled to financial compensation in the form of a mesothelioma settlement. To learn more about your legal options and if an asbestos lawyer may be able to help you, please contact us for a free legal consultation.