Asbestos Exposure in Historical Steel Mills

Throughout the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s to 1970s, asbestos was a critical material in the U.S. steel industry. It was chiefly used for insulating heavy machinery and safeguarding workers against the intense heat of steel production. This widespread usage led to considerable exposure risks for employees in steel manufacturing facilities, and concerns persist in older plants where asbestos might still be present.

Asbestos Utilization in Steel Production Facilities

In that era, asbestos was incorporated into numerous steel mill components for its ability to resist high temperatures. Its applications included insulation, which was prized for being both lightweight and fire-resistant.

Activities like maintenance or repair of these asbestos-laden materials often led to the dispersal of asbestos fibers, creating a hazardous environment for workers. Breathing in or swallowing these fibers could contribute to developing severe health conditions linked to asbestos.

Typical Asbestos-Infused Products in Steel Mills Included:

• Heat-resistant boilers
• Sealing gaskets
• Fireproof protective wear
• High-temperature furnaces
• Industrial ovens
• Thermal pipe coverings
• Protective garments
• Insulated steam conduits
• Molds for steel casting

Though asbestos usage saw a decline post-1970s, its remnants might still linger in older steel facilities.

Asbestos in Major Steel Mills

During the peak of asbestos use, there were a significant number of steel mills in the U.S., with many incorporating asbestos materials. From 1945 to 1985 there was a high usage of steel mills in the United States. According to the IMF eLibrary, By 1985, The United States steel industry represented just 11 percent of global steel production, while over a quarter of U.S. steel demand relied on imports. Moreover, this industry contributed to less than 0.2 percent of the total civilian workforce. Although there were fewer Steel Mill Workers after 1985, the asbestos still lingers.

Exposure Risks for Steel Mill Workers

Jobs within the steel mills, including those of boilermakers, machinists, and welders, frequently entailed direct interaction with asbestos. Often, these workers were not sufficiently protected or informed about the dangers of asbestos exposure.

Secondary Exposure Concerns

Not just the steelworkers, but also their families, faced the risk of secondary exposure. Asbestos fibers could unintentionally be brought into homes via workers’ clothing.

Legal Options and Compensation for Asbestos Exposure

Individuals who suffered from asbestos exposure in steel mills have the right to seek legal compensation.