Overview
Glaziers — workers who install glass in windows, doors, and building facades — faced asbestos exposure from window putty, caulking compounds, and fireproof glazing assemblies. While exposure levels were generally lower than for other construction trades, glaziers who worked extensively with older buildings or specialized fire-rated installations faced elevated risk.
Asbestos in Glazing Materials
| Product | Asbestos Content | Exposure Level |
|---|---|---|
| Glazing putty | 2–5% | Moderate |
| Caulking compound | 5–15% | Moderate |
| Fire-rated assemblies | Variable | Moderate |
| Metal frame insulation | Variable | Low-Moderate |
How Glaziers Were Exposed
New Installation
Installing new glazing with asbestos materials:
- Applying glazing putty around glass
- Using caulking compounds for sealing
- Installing fire-rated window assemblies
- Working with metal frames that had asbestos insulation
Replacement Work
Replacing old glazing created higher exposure:
- Scraping old asbestos-containing putty
- Removing hardened caulking compounds
- Disturbing fire-rated assemblies
- Working in older buildings with ambient asbestos
The highest exposure for glaziers occurred when removing old windows. Scraping and chiseling hardened asbestos putty released fibers directly into the worker’s breathing zone.
Work Environments
Glaziers worked in:
- Residential: Window installation and replacement
- Commercial: Office buildings, storefronts
- High-rise: Curtain wall systems
- Industrial: Factory windows
- Renovation: Replacing old windows
Related Occupations
Glaziers worked alongside:
- Carpenters — Building construction
- Painters — Exterior finishing
- Sheet metal workers — Curtain walls
- Laborers — Material handling
Related Industries
Health Consequences
Glaziers with asbestos exposure are at risk for:
- Mesothelioma: Cancer of the chest or abdominal lining
- Asbestosis: Progressive lung scarring
- Lung cancer: Especially combined with smoking
- Pleural disease: Thickening of lung lining
Legal Options
Glaziers diagnosed with mesothelioma may pursue:
Asbestos Trust Funds
Manufacturers of putty and caulking products have established trusts.
Additional Claims
- Product liability lawsuits: Against putty/caulk manufacturers
- Premises liability: Against building owners
- Workers’ compensation: Through employer coverage