Industries Historically Linked to Asbestos Exposure
A high-level look at the industries where asbestos was widely used and where exposure risk was historically elevated.
Asbestos use was broad, but it was not evenly distributed. Some industries relied on it heavily because of its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. That pattern helps explain why mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases have been concentrated in certain work environments. OSHA
Shipbuilding and ship repair
Ships used asbestos in insulation, pipe covering, gaskets, boilers, turbines, and fireproofing materials. CDC mortality reporting has identified ship and boat building and repair among the sectors with elevated mesothelioma burden. CDC MMWR
Construction and building trades
Construction and renovation work exposed workers to insulation, cement products, pipe materials, floor tiles, roofing materials, and joint compounds containing asbestos. Disturbing older materials could release fibers into the air. OSHA
Industrial plants and refineries
Petroleum refining and industrial chemical settings used asbestos in heat-resistant equipment, gaskets, insulation, and process systems. CDC has identified elevated burden in these sectors as well. CDC MMWR