Asbestos Cement Pipe: A Complete Guide

Asbestos was added to many cement products, but one of the most common uses was in asbestos cement pipe. Asbestos made pipes more durable, but could also lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma.

If you or a loved one worked with asbestos cement pipes and now have mesothelioma, you may have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other costs. Learn more about this type of asbestos exposure and your legal options.

What Is Asbestos Cement Pipe?

Asbestos cement pipes, or concrete pipes, are made by mixing asbestos fibers into the cement before the pipe is set and dried. Asbestos in cement created pipes that could withstand heat, pressure and chemicals, making them ideal for wastewater, irrigation, drainage and water supply systems, as well as ventilation ducts and even telephone ducts for wires and cables.

History of Asbestos Cement Pipes

Asbestos concrete pipes were extremely popular from the 1940s through the 1960s and were used in residential, commercial and public works projects. At the peak of asbestos cement pipe production, they were widely installed in hundreds of thousands of miles of HVAC, water and sewage systems across the country.

The use of asbestos in air ducts and concrete pipes continued through the 1970s, before the health risks associated with asbestos exposure became widely known. Regulations in the 1980s started restricting asbestos use, and manufacturers phased it out of construction materials. Even though it’s no longer used, many older buildings and public water systems still contain asbestos concrete pipes today. The concrete can release asbestos when the pipes are replaced or repaired during renovation projects, and even as they age over time.

Health Risks of Asbestos Concrete Pipes

When an asbestos cement pipe deteriorates or is cut, broken or drilled, microscopic asbestos fibers are released into the air, where they may be inhaled by anyone nearby. Inhalation of asbestos fibers is the primary cause of mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart.

Mesothelioma typically develops decades after the initial exposure, and asbestos claims after death are common with this type of cancer. Other health risks include lung cancer and asbestosis, which can make breathing difficult and significantly impact quality of life.

How Are People Exposed?

Exposure to asbestos from cement pipes can happen in different ways, depending on the condition of the pipes and the type of work being performed. Construction workers who cut into old asbestos sewer pipes may release the fibers into the air. Demolition of aging pipes can expose the workers who break down and remove the concrete. Even routine maintenance of underground pipes requires protective measures to contain any asbestos dust.

Workers who handle asbestos cement pipes might also bring the fibers home on their clothes. Family members who wash contaminated clothing or come into close contact with workers carrying asbestos fibers may also develop mesothelioma later in life.

Occupations At-Risk

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) established the first protections for those who work with asbestos products in 1970, and today there are strict regulations in place. However, people who worked with asbestos cement pipes before the regulations took effect are still at risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Jobs at risk of mesothelioma include:

Manufacturers of Asbestos Cement Pipes

Asbestos was cheap, easy to get and produced long-lasting pipes. Despite evidence of the dangers of asbestos exposure, many manufacturers chose to continue to use it in their products. Companies known for asbestos cement pipe production include:

Know Your Legal Rights

Mesothelioma can lead to high medical bills, lost wages and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma because of your work with asbestos cement pipes, you may be able to recover these costs and hold the companies responsible.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Many workers have successfully won mesothelioma settlements after proving that they developed the disease because of a company’s negligence. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to speak with an attorney who understands asbestos exposure cases and can guide you through your legal options.

Asbestos Trust Funds

Many asbestos manufacturers declared bankruptcy due to the overwhelming number of lawsuits against them. They set up asbestos trust funds to compensate future victims. An attorney can also help you navigate which funds you may be eligible for and how to file a claim.

Workers Compensation and VA Benefits

Workers who developed mesothelioma because of on-the-job asbestos exposure might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The laws vary by state, but an experienced attorney can help you file a claim if you’re eligible.

Veterans who were exposed asbestos during their service, as well as their families, may qualify for benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Talk to a Mesothelioma Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, financial compensation can make a big difference. A lawyer experienced in asbestos-related cases can help you understand your legal rights and support you throughout the process.

At ELSM, we have decades of experience in handling mesothelioma cases and have helped many families get the justice they deserve after on-the-job asbestos exposure. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options and how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

What materials are typically used in asbestos cement pipe production?

Asbestos cement pipes typically included Portland cement with asbestos fibers. The mixture usually contained around 15% to 20% asbestos. This combination was considered an innovative solution at the time, but we now understand the serious health risks of asbestos.

Are asbestos cement water pipes safe?

Asbestos cement water pipes are safe as long as they remain in good condition. The primary concern is the release of asbestos fibers when pipes break down, get damaged or are mishandled during repairs or maintenance. Federal regulations, such as the Safe Drinking Water Act, help limit the risk by controlling the amount of asbestos allowed in drinking water.

How do I know if my home has asbestos cement pipes?

If your home was built between the 1930s and the 1980s, there is a possibility it contains asbestos cement pipes. One of the first things you can do is look for any labels or markings on exposed pipes. You may also be able to consult the building’s original plans or permits. If you suspect that your home has asbestos cement pipes, contact a licensed professional who can inspect your home safely.

What steps should be taken if asbestos cement pipes are found in a home?

If you discover asbestos cement pipes in your home, the most important thing is to avoid disturbing them. Hire a licensed asbestos professional to assess the pipes. If they’re undamaged, they should be monitored for future signs of wear. If the pipes are damaged, they may need to be sealed or removed. Only certified experts should perform these tasks.