Asbestos was integrated into American industry for its heat resistance and durability. From shipyards to power plants, workers handled asbestos-containing materials daily—often without any protective equipment or knowledge of the dangers.

13+ High-risk industries
Millions Workers exposed
1940-1980 Peak exposure era

Industries by Exposure Risk

Construction

Building trades handling insulation, drywall, roofing, and flooring materials.

1.5M+ workers Peak: 1950-1980

Shipbuilding & Shipyards

Naval vessels and commercial ships heavily insulated with asbestos.

500K+ workers Peak: 1940-1975

Power Plants

Boilers, turbines, and pipes insulated with asbestos materials.

200K+ workers Peak: 1950-1985

Oil Refineries

High-heat equipment insulated with asbestos throughout facilities.

150K+ workers Peak: 1950-1980

Automotive Repair

Brake pads and clutch facings containing asbestos fibers.

800K+ workers Peak: 1940-2000

Asbestos Manufacturing

Direct handling of raw asbestos in product manufacturing.

100K+ workers Peak: 1930-1980

Steel Manufacturing

Furnaces and equipment insulated with asbestos products.

400K+ workers Peak: 1940-1985

Railroads

Locomotive engines, brakes, and railcar insulation.

300K+ workers Peak: 1940-1980

Mining

Asbestos mining and processing of contaminated minerals.

50K+ workers Peak: 1920-1990

Maritime

Commercial shipping and port operations with asbestos cargo.

200K+ workers Peak: 1940-1980

Tile Installation

Vinyl asbestos tiles and adhesives in flooring work.

150K+ workers Peak: 1950-1985

Abrasives Manufacturing

Grinding wheels and abrasive products with asbestos binders.

25K+ workers Peak: 1940-1980

Offshore Operations

Ship maintenance and offshore platform work disturbing asbestos.

20K+ workers Peak: 1960-1990

Why These Industries?

Industries with the highest mesothelioma rates share common factors:

  • High-heat environments — Asbestos was used to insulate boilers, furnaces, pipes, and equipment
  • Enclosed spaces — Ships, factories, and plants concentrated airborne fibers
  • Physical work — Cutting, grinding, and installing materials released fibers
  • Lack of protection — Workers had no masks or safety equipment until the 1980s

If You Worked in These Industries

Workers employed in these industries before 1990 should:

  1. Inform your doctor of your work history and potential asbestos exposure
  2. Watch for symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath
  3. Document your employment history, including job sites and dates
  4. Consult with an attorney about compensation options if diagnosed