Asbestos Exposure in Boilermakers

Boilmakers are very skillful individuals who mill, locate, fix boilers, tanks and closed vats that need rebuilding by hand.

Historically, boilermaking has been essential to various industries such as power generation, shipping and manufacturing. The role of the practice has evolved along with technological and material advances over time.

Nonetheless, boilermakers ‘ profession has over the years meant exposure to significant health risks related to asbestos.

Asbestos Exposure Statistics in Boilermakers

A large majority of cancer cases and asbestosis are discovered in those jobs that require the use or handling of asbestos materials. Historically, incidences of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases have been significantly higher among people working at this trade.

Boilermakers are five times more likely than the rest of us to suffer an asbestos-related disease. Researchers have found that the chances of getting sick with a disease in this field are almost 80 times greater for people who do asbestos work than for others.

How was Asbestos Used in Boilermaking?

Asbestos was extensively used in boiler making for its insulation and fireproofing properties. Common practices included using asbestos-containing materials to insulate boilers, pipes, and other components.

The lifecycle of asbestos in boiler making began with raw asbestos fibers, which were then incorporated into various products and used throughout the construction and maintenance processes.

Boilermaking Companies and Workshops That Used Asbestos and Their Locations

Prominent boilermaking companies that used asbestos include Babcock & Wilcox, Foster Wheeler, and Combustion Engineering. These companies operated globally, with significant workshops in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Historically, these operations were vital to industrial growth, but they also contributed to widespread asbestos exposure among workers.

Boilermaking companies have played a crucial role in industrial development, particularly in the construction and maintenance of boilers, pressure vessels, and other heavy-duty equipment.

However, many of these companies historically used asbestos in their products and processes due to its heat-resistant properties. This has led to significant asbestos exposure among workers, resulting in serious health issues such as mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Prominent Boilermaking Companies

Babcock & Wilcox

• Overview: Founded in 1867, Babcock & Wilcox is a major player in the energy and environmental sectors. The company has been involved in the design and manufacture of boilers and other power generation equipment.
• Asbestos Use: Asbestos was commonly used in their boilers and insulation materials to withstand high temperatures.
• Locations: The company has had significant operations in the United States, Canada, and Europe, with major workshops in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Ontario.

Foster Wheeler

• Overview: Established in 1884, Foster Wheeler is known for its engineering and construction services, particularly in the energy sector.
• Asbestos Use: The company used asbestos in its boilers, steam generators, and other industrial equipment.
• Locations: Foster Wheeler had major facilities in New Jersey, Texas, and the United Kingdom.

Combustion Engineering

• Overview: Combustion Engineering, founded in 1912, specializes in the design and manufacture of boilers and other power generation equipment.
• Asbestos Use: Asbestos was used extensively in their products for its insulating and fireproofing properties.
• Locations: The company operated significant workshops in Connecticut, New York, and Illinois.

Products, Components, or Processes that Contained Asbestos in Boilermaking

In the boilermaking industry, asbestos was a common component in products, components, and processes, primarily to enhance heat resistance and insulation. However, the use of asbestos has led to severe health risks, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. This breakdown explores the specific applications of asbestos in boilermaking.

Asbestos-containing products in Boilermaking

Boiler Insulation:

• Asbestos Lagging: Asbestos lagging was used to insulate boilers, pipes, and ducts. This material was applied in layers to provide thermal insulation and prevent heat loss.
• Asbestos Blankets: These were used to wrap around boilers and other high-temperature equipment to maintain heat and improve energy efficiency.

Gaskets and Seals:

• Asbestos Gaskets: These were used in boiler systems to create tight seals between metal components, preventing leaks of steam and hot water. Asbestos gaskets were favored for their durability and heat resistance.
• Asbestos Packing: Used in valve stems and pump shafts, asbestos packing provided a seal that could withstand high temperatures and pressures.

Cement and Adhesives:

• Asbestos Cement: Also known as asbestos-containing refractory cement, this material was used to line boilers and furnaces. It provided a durable, heat-resistant barrier.
• Asbestos Adhesives: These were used to bond insulation materials to boiler surfaces and other components.

Fireproofing Materials:

• Asbestos Fireproofing Spray: Applied to boiler rooms and other high-risk areas, this spray provides a fire-resistant coating to protect structures and equipment.
• Asbestos Boards: Used as fireproof barriers, these boards were installed in boiler rooms to prevent the spread of fire.

Asbestos-Containing Components in Boilers

Boiler Jackets:

• Asbestos-Insulated Jackets: These jackets were used to cover boilers, providing an additional layer of insulation and protecting workers from high surface temperatures.

Pipe Insulation:

• Asbestos Pipe Wrap: Pipes connected to boilers were often wrapped in asbestos insulation to maintain temperature and prevent heat loss.

Boiler Doors and Panels:

• Asbestos-Containing Panels: Boiler doors and access panels were often lined with asbestos to provide heat resistance and fire protection.

Processes Involving Asbestos in Boilermaking

Installation and Maintenance:

• Cutting and Shaping Asbestos Materials: During the installation of boilers, workers would cut and shape asbestos insulation, gaskets, and other materials to fit specific components.
• Applying Asbestos Cement and Adhesives: Workers applied these materials to line boilers and bond insulation, often generating asbestos dust.

Repair and Replacement:

• Removing Old Asbestos Insulation: Maintenance and repair work often involved removing and replacing worn or damaged asbestos insulation, gaskets, and seals.
• Handling Asbestos Waste: The disposal of asbestos-containing materials requires careful handling to prevent the release of fibers into the air.

Health Risks and Regulations

The use of asbestos in boilermaking has led to significant health risks for workers. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious diseases, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

As a result, strict regulations have been implemented to control the use of asbestos and protect workers. These regulations include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and safe handling and disposal procedures.

Equipment that Contained Asbestos in Boilermaking

Equipment and machinery in boilermaking that contained asbestos included boilers, heat exchangers, and pumps. Asbestos was incorporated into these machines to enhance their heat resistance and durability. Specific examples include asbestos-insulated boilers and asbestos-lined furnaces, which were common in industrial settings.

Where Asbestos Exposure Occurred in Boilermaking

High exposure risks occurred during tasks such as insulating boilers, cutting asbestos-containing materials, and repairing old equipment. Locations within workshops with high exposure included boiler rooms, maintenance areas, and storage facilities. Historically, safety measures were often inadequate, leading to significant exposure.

Occupations at Risk of Asbestos Exposure in Boilermaking

High-risk occupations within the boilermaking industry include boiler installers, maintenance workers, and insulators. These roles involved direct handling of asbestos-containing materials, making them more vulnerable to exposure. The responsibilities of these jobs often require working in confined spaces with poor ventilation, increasing the risk.

Boilermakers’ Asbestos Lawsuits and Compensation

Boilermakers, due to their work with high-temperature equipment and materials, have historically been at significant risk of asbestos exposure. Asbestos was commonly used for its heat-resistant properties in boilers, pipes, and other industrial equipment.

Over time, many boilermakers developed serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, leading to numerous lawsuits against employers and asbestos manufacturers.

Significant Lawsuits and Their Outcomes

John Crane Inc. Lawsuit

• Case Summary: John Crane Inc., a manufacturer of asbestos-containing products, faced multiple lawsuits from boilermakers who developed mesothelioma.
• Outcome: In many cases, the company settled out of court, while in others, juries awarded significant compensations. For instance, in 2012, a California jury awarded $22 million to a boilermaker who developed mesothelioma after exposure to John Crane’s products.

Garlock Sealing Technologies

• Case Summary: Garlock Sealing Technologies, another major manufacturer, was involved in numerous lawsuits. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2010 due to the overwhelming number of claims.
• Outcome: During bankruptcy proceedings, it was revealed that Garlock had paid out over $1.3 billion in settlements and judgments. The company established a trust fund to compensate future claimants.

Union Carbide Corporation

• Case Summary: Union Carbide faced lawsuits from boilermakers exposed to asbestos in their products.
• Outcome: In 2004, a Texas jury awarded $18.5 million to the family of a deceased boilermaker. The verdict included $15 million in punitive damages, highlighting the company’s negligence.

Compensation Awarded to Boilermakers or Their Families

Compensation in asbestos-related lawsuits typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Settlements and jury awards can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the illness and the degree of negligence by the defendant.

• Medical Expenses: Covers costs for treatments, surgeries, medications, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Compensates for income lost due to illness and inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Addresses the physical and emotional distress caused by the disease.
• Punitive Damages: Imposed to punish the defendant for gross negligence and deter future misconduct.

Current Legal Resources and Support Available to Affected Workers

Asbestos Trust Funds

• Many companies that manufacture asbestos products have established trust funds to compensate victims. These funds are a result of bankruptcy proceedings and are designed to provide financial support to those affected by asbestos exposure.

Legal Firms Specializing in Asbestos Cases

• Numerous law firms specialize in asbestos litigation, offering free consultations and working on a contingency fee basis. These firms have extensive experience in handling complex asbestos cases and can guide affected workers through the legal process Mesowatch can guide you to these steps and connect you with leading, experienced lawyers who focus on boilermaker cases.

Support Organizations

• Organizations like the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization provide resources, support, and advocacy for asbestos victims and their families.

Prominent Cases in Detail

The Case of Robert Whalen

• Background: Robert Whalen, a boilermaker, was diagnosed with mesothelioma after decades of working with asbestos-containing products.
• Lawsuit: Whalen filed a lawsuit against multiple manufacturers, including John Crane Inc. and Garlock Sealing Technologies.
• Outcome: In 2011, a New York jury awarded Whalen $35 million, one of the largest verdicts for a single plaintiff in an asbestos case. The award included $25 million for pain and suffering and $10 million in punitive damages.

The Estate of William C.

• Background: William C., a boilermaker, passed away from mesothelioma. His family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Union Carbide Corporation.
• Lawsuit: The case highlighted the company’s failure to warn workers about the dangers of asbestos.
• Outcome: In 2004, the jury awarded the family $18.5 million, including $15 million in punitive damages, emphasizing the company’s gross negligence.

Boilermakers exposed to asbestos have faced significant health challenges, leading to numerous lawsuits against manufacturers and employers. These legal actions have resulted in substantial compensations, providing financial relief to affected workers and their families.

Current legal resources and support organizations continue to assist those impacted by asbestos exposure, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Common Questions About Boilermaking and Asbestos Exposure