Before regulatory bans were enacted, asbestos was widely used in construction due to its fire resistance, durability, and insulating properties. However, this material, once deemed miraculous, proved deadly. Among the most affected were roofers, who frequently encountered asbestos on job sites without sufficient knowledge or protective measures. This article delves into how roofers were exposed to asbestos, the materials and practices that put them at risk, the resulting health consequences, and the regulatory responses that eventually curbed its use.
The Role of Asbestos in Roofing Materials
Throughout the 20th century, asbestos was a staple in roofing products. It was commonly found in:
- Asphalt roofing felts
- Shingles
- Cement-based roofing materials
- Flashing and sealants
- Roof coatings and mastics
These products incorporated asbestos because it added strength, resisted weathering, and improved fire resistance. Roofers regularly cut, drilled, and handled these materials, which often released fine asbestos fibers into the air—especially in hot environments where roofing adhesives were heated.
In addition, asbestos was frequently used in siding and insulation on rooftops, especially for buildings requiring added fire protection. Many industrial and commercial buildings relied on asbestos-laced roofing systems for both safety and cost-efficiency. Unfortunately, these same qualities also made the fibers particularly hazardous when disturbed.
Common Job Site Practices That Increased Exposure
Roofers often worked in conditions that amplified their asbestos exposure risk:
- Dry cutting and grinding of asbestos-laden materials, which released airborne fibers.
- No or inadequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Lack of ventilation on rooftops, especially when using heat to apply materials.
- Unawareness of asbestos presence, particularly in older materials during renovations.
- Improper disposal of asbestos-containing waste, which contributed to environmental contamination.
Many roofers unknowingly carried asbestos dust on their clothing and tools, spreading it to their homes and exposing family members—a phenomenon known as secondary or para-occupational exposure. This added another tragic layer to the health implications of asbestos exposure in roofing work.
Health Consequences for Roofers
Roofers who were exposed to asbestos on the job face a heightened risk of developing serious illnesses, many of which have long latency periods:
Mesothelioma
A rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, mesothelioma is almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure. It can take 20–50 years after initial exposure to develop.
Asbestosis
This is a chronic, progressive lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Over time, it causes scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties.
Lung Cancer
Roofers exposed to asbestos, especially those who smoked, faced significantly increased odds of developing lung cancer.
Pleural Disorders
Non-cancerous conditions like pleural plaques, pleural effusion, and diffuse pleural thickening are also common among exposed workers.
According to a 2014 report by the CDC, construction workers—especially those in roofing and insulation—represent a significant percentage of asbestos-related disease diagnoses. Mortality data show that mesothelioma rates are markedly higher in roofing professions compared to the general population.
Timeline of Regulation and Awareness
- 1920s–1950s: Early medical literature hints at the dangers of asbestos, but industry denial and lack of regulation keep usage widespread.
- 1970: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is established and begins regulating workplace exposure.
- 1986: The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) mandates asbestos management in schools, increasing national awareness.
- 1989: EPA issues a final rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to phase out and ban most asbestos-containing products.
- 1991: The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals overturns much of the 1989 EPA ban, but some restrictions remain.
- 2002–2019: Several states pass their own stricter asbestos laws, and global awareness increases.
- 2024: EPA finalizes a new rule banning the continued use of chrysotile asbestos in the U.S.
Current Risks and Precautions
While the use of asbestos has dramatically declined, the danger has not disappeared. Many older buildings, especially those constructed before the 1980s, still contain asbestos in their roofing systems.
For Today’s Roofers:
- Asbestos Awareness Training: OSHA requires employers to provide training for all workers who may encounter asbestos.
- Proper PPE: Respirators, disposable coveralls, gloves, and goggles are essential.
- Safe Work Practices: Use of wet methods to suppress dust, HEPA vacuums, and avoiding power tools unless properly ventilated.
- Testing and Monitoring: Materials should be tested before disturbance; air monitoring should be conducted during suspected exposure.
- Asbestos Abatement Professionals: For major renovations or demolitions, licensed abatement teams should handle the material.
Adherence to OSHA standards, EPA guidelines, and state regulations is essential. Violations can lead to severe penalties and legal liabilities.
Legal and Compensation Aspects
Many roofers suffering from asbestos-related diseases have pursued legal action against manufacturers and employers for failing to warn or protect them. Asbestos trust funds, established during major company bankruptcies, have paid out billions in compensation to affected workers and their families.
Notable Legal Facts:
- Over $30 billion is still available in asbestos trust funds.
- Workers can file personal injury claims or wrongful death lawsuits.
- Legal claims often rely on work history, medical documentation, and expert testimony.
- Statutes of limitations vary by state, making timely medical and legal consultation essential.
Law firms specializing in mesothelioma and occupational diseases often provide free consultations to help affected workers understand their rights and options.
Global Perspective
While the U.S. has made progress, asbestos use continues in many parts of the world. Countries like India, Russia, and China still mine and utilize asbestos in construction. This raises ethical concerns about global supply chains and worker safety overseas. International efforts such as the Rotterdam Convention aim to restrict hazardous material trade, including asbestos, but enforcement remains inconsistent.
Conclusion
The history of asbestos in roofing is a stark reminder of how widespread industrial use of hazardous materials can have long-term, deadly consequences. Roofers, often unaware of the silent danger, faced daily exposure with few protections. While regulations have improved, the legacy of asbestos remains present in many structures. Understanding the past, implementing stringent safety measures today, and supporting affected workers are all crucial steps in addressing the enduring impact of asbestos exposure.
The story of roofers and asbestos is not only one of occupational health—it is a call to vigilance, accountability, and ongoing advocacy for worker safety.
References:
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Asbestos Laws and Regulations.”
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). “Asbestos.”
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Asbestos: Worker Health Study.”
- Mesothelioma Guide. “Roofers and Asbestos Exposure.”
- Simmons Hanly Conroy. “Occupational Asbestos Exposure for Roofers.”
- Ferrell Law Group. “Asbestos Exposure in Construction Workers.”
- American Cancer Society. “Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure.”
- National Cancer Institute. “Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment (PDQ).”
- International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. “Global Asbestos Use and Regulation.”
- Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). “Asbestos Exposure and Prevention.”
