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Written by Michelle Whitmer | Scientifically Reviewed By Arti Shukla, Ph.D. | Edited By Walter Pacheco | Last Update: March 25, 2024
Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are maintained by HVAC mechanics, and this occupation is considered at risk of asbestos exposure because it required workers to handle asbestos products. Asbestos was used in HVAC equipment because it provided strength, durability and heat-resistance.
When old ductwork is cut, sanded, broken or disturbed in any way, asbestos fibers can be released into the air and inhaled by workers. HVAC mechanics also are exposed to asbestos during normal system maintenance. They must frequently change filters and check furnaces. When mechanics open compartments and panels to perform these tasks, they can disturb any asbestos that has settled in the space. Often, this debris also contains asbestos fibers.
Additionally, HVAC mechanics working on buildings built before 1980 may be at risk of asbestos exposure. Repairs can often disturb asbestos in insulation, drywall, flooring and ceiling tiles, steam or water piping and furnace ducts. The inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems. Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma, and it also can cause asbestosis and asbestos-related lung cancer.
HVAC mechanics had to directly handle asbestos-containing ductwork connectors. They were also exposed when they cut or damaged old building materials that contained asbestos.
HVAC mechanics may be exposed to a variety of asbestos products, including:
Manufacturers of asbestos-containing products and building materials have been sued by HVAC mechanics who developed mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
Manufacturers who made asbestos products HVAC mechanics were exposed to include:
Get help finding a top attorney who can get you the compensation you deserve.
Get Help NowScientific studies have documented an increased risk of asbestos-related illness in HVAC mechanics and examined the risk of asbestos exposure when working on HVAC equipment. According to a 2022 report by the European Commission, over 70,000 workers died in 2019 from past exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Exposure to asbestos also causes lung cancer, ovarian cancer, laryngeal cancer and asbestosis. If you’re a former HVAC mechanic and develop any respiratory or digestive problems, tell your doctor about your asbestos exposure history and request a cancer screening. Diagnosing and treating these conditions early improves treatment outcomes. Make sure to find a doctor specializing in your diagnosis to access the best treatment.
HVAC workers have successfully sued manufacturers using asbestos in products for compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages and other expenses related to their diagnosis.
It is important to find an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to handle your legal claim. They have the training, tools and background to properly handle your case to maximize compensation. You may qualify to file multiple asbestos trust fund claims in addition to a personal injury lawsuit.
If you’ve lost a loved one to mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for medical and funeral expenses.
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Whitmer, M. (2024, March 25). HVAC Mechanics and Asbestos Exposure. Asbestos.com. Retrieved October 28, 2024, from https://www.asbestos.com/occupations/hvac/
Whitmer, Michelle. "HVAC Mechanics and Asbestos Exposure." Asbestos.com, 25 Mar 2024, https://www.asbestos.com/occupations/hvac/.
Whitmer, Michelle. "HVAC Mechanics and Asbestos Exposure." Asbestos.com. Last modified March 25, 2024. https://www.asbestos.com/occupations/hvac/.
An occupational scientist or another expert who specializes in occupational hazards reviewed the content on this page to ensure it meets current scientific standards and accuracy.
Please read our editorial guidelines to learn more about our content creation and review process.
Arti Shukla, Ph.D., is an internationally renowned asbestos researcher known for her achievements in identifying biomarkers that cause mesothelioma. She is the director of the Shukla Research Lab, as well as a professor of pathology at The University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine.
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