Construction workers face many hazards during their careers, and sheet metal workers are often in spaces between walls and inside ceilings, where they can be exposed to asbestos and silica.
We want you to be informed! Every month you’ll receive more information about asbestos- and silica-related diseases and how to protect yourself on the jobsite and your family at home.
If you’d like to jump ahead and read more about these dangers, protections against them, and what your union is doing to help, jump to the Workplace Exposure Research Program Awareness page.
What is asbestosis?
Asbestosis refers to chronic lung diseases caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, which are microscopic, easily inhaled and remain airborne for up to 72 hours after they’re disturbed. Asbestos fibers enter the lung tissue, causing scarring and inflammation over many years, with a latency period of 10 to 40 years.
What are some asbestos-related diseases?
- Lung cancer
- Laryngeal (voice box) cancer
- Pleural thickening
- Mesothelioma
- Colorectal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Esophageal cancer