How Asbestos Exposure Affects Tradespeople: What Electricians, Plumbers, and Builders Need to Know

Tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, and builders often face unique health risks due to exposure to asbestos.

Although asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003, it remains a hidden danger in many older buildings, with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present in insulation, pipes, cement, and other construction materials.

Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures can help protect your health and prevent asbestos-related diseases. And that’s what we’re here to help with today – keep reading to learn more about avoiding asbestos exposure.

The dangers of asbestos exposure for tradespeople

When tradespeople disturb asbestos-containing materials during renovations, demolitions, or repairs, tiny asbestos fibres are released into the air. These fibres, when inhaled, can embed themselves in lung tissue, causing scarring and inflammation that may lead to serious health problems. Because asbestos dust is invisible and does not break down over time, it remains a long-term hazard on worksites.

Key health risks associated with asbestos exposure include:

• Asbestos-related diseases: These include asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Tradespeople exposed to asbestos face a higher risk of developing these conditions, which can take decades to appear.
• Asbestos-related lung disease: Chronic conditions like pleural plaques and pleural thickening can impair lung function and cause ongoing health problems.
• Cancer risk: Mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused exclusively by asbestos exposure, is one of the deadliest outcomes. Additionally, lung cancer and other asbestos-related diseases pose significant risks to workers exposed to asbestos over time.

Common sources of asbestos in trades

Electricians, plumbers, and builders frequently encounter asbestos in older structures. Some of the most common asbestos-containing products and materials include:

• Electrical installations: Asbestos insulation in wiring, switchboards, and electrical panels.
• Plumbing systems: Asbestos cement pipes, lagging, and other materials surrounding hot water systems.
• Building materials: Roofing sheets, floor tiles, and bonded asbestos cement used in walls and ceilings.
• Fireproofing and insulation: Naturally occurring asbestos was often used for fireproofing and soundproofing purposes in commercial and industrial sites.

These toxic substances pose the greatest risk when disturbed, releasing airborne fibres that are easily inhaled.

Protecting yourself from asbestos exposure

Tradespeople can significantly reduce their risk of developing asbestos-related diseases by following these best practices:

1. Identify asbestos on-site: Before starting work, consult the asbestos register or hire a licensed professional to inspect for asbestos-containing materials. Knowing where asbestos is located can prevent accidental exposure.
2. Wear protective gear: Certified P2 or P3 respirators, disposable coveralls, gloves, and other PPE are essential for working safely around asbestos dust.
3. Follow safety regulations: Australian laws require strict controls for working with or near asbestos, including wet methods to suppress dust and proper disposal of contaminated materials.
4. Do not disturb ACMs: Avoid using power tools, abrasive equipment, or cutting methods that release asbestos fibres.
5. Undergo regular health monitoring: Tradespeople frequently exposed to asbestos should have lung function tests and other health checks to monitor for early signs of asbestos-related diseases.

What happens if you’re exposed to asbestos?

The effects of asbestos exposure are not immediate, often taking decades for symptoms to develop.

This latency period means workers may not realise the seriousness of their initial exposure until much later.

Early detection of asbestos-related lung diseases, such as mesothelioma or asbestosis, can improve treatment outcomes. If you believe you’ve been exposed to asbestos fibres, seek medical advice and document the exposure for future reference.

The legal responsibilities of employers and workers

Employers in the construction industry have a legal obligation to protect workers from asbestos exposure. This includes:

• Maintaining an asbestos management plan and providing access to the asbestos register.
• Ensuring all workers receive asbestos awareness training.
• Hiring licensed asbestos removal professionals for high-risk tasks.

Tradespeople, in turn, must follow all workplace safety protocols and report any suspected asbestos materials immediately.

How asbestos removal services can help

Licensed asbestos removalists are essential for safely handling and disposing of asbestos-containing products.

If you encounter asbestos in your work, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Proper removal and disposal require specialised training and equipment to prevent contamination and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

That’s where we come in. At Asbestos Australia, we remove asbestos safely and dispose of it correctly. Our asbestos removal services are available in Melbourne, throughout Victoria and in New South Wales and South Australia.

Protecting your health and your future with Asbestos Australia

Asbestos exposure remains a serious health hazard for electricians, plumbers, and builders. By staying informed and following workplace safety guidelines, you can reduce your risk of developing asbestos-related diseases and ensure a safer environment for yourself and your coworkers.

Asbestos Australia is committed to safeguarding tradespeople. From asbestos inspections to professional removal services, we’re here to help you manage asbestos risks effectively. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect you and your team.

Posted By: Asbestos Australia Removalist