Electricians

History and Background

The public use of electricity became plausible with Thomas Edison's invention of the light bulb. This convenient and safe invention prompted the spread of electricity into everyday life as homes and business eventually became "wired". Today it would be odd to not have access to electricity.

Since electricity has become a staple of the modern world, there has been a need for people who are specialized in working with the potentially dangerous commodity. These men and women are known as electricians, basically tradesmen specializing in electrical wiring of buildings and related equipment. The occupation of electrician is a very specialized field that requires training programs, testing and licensing as it can be dangerous. Some electricians work for large construction companies, installing and maintaining wiring systems throughout huge projects, while many others are "self-employed". These "self-employed" electricians usually have their own company and are on call to anyone, though they do most of their work in private residences.

Tasks Putting Electricians at Risk

Electricians often encounter asbestos, in some form, while on the job. Asbestos was used in construction products up until the 1970s and 1980s, including electrical insulation and wallboard and tiles. Since a major aspect of the electrician's job involves installing wiring systems throughout homes and businesses, electricians often have to drill holes in order to route or re-route the wires. The products that are drilled can often contain asbestos thereby creating a potentially dangerous work environment due to the dust in the air. Many self-employed electricians might not even realize that the drywall or insulation paper could be hazardous to their health.

Electricians also install insulating films and papers to prevent people from getting shocks from the wires. These products are cut and fitted depending on the situation. Prior to the 1970s, insulating films and papers were made with asbestos. Cutting and installing these products could also put asbestos particles in the air. The mineral is naturally heat resistant and fire-proof, two very desirable characteristics in insulation.

The maintenance and upkeep of older electrical wiring systems also puts electricians and their apprentices at risk for exposure to asbestos. Removing or repairing old insulation can result in asbestos dust in the air. Unless proper protection equipment is utilized, electricians run the risk of exposure to these particles.

Types of Asbestos Products Electricians Used

The following are products that could possibly contain asbestos that electricians may encounter while on the job:

Cement Wallboard
Cement Siding
Acoustical Plaster
Decorative Plaster
Textured Paints
Ceiling Tiles
Electrical Ducts
Electrical Panel Partitions
Electrical Cloth
Electric Wiring Insulation
Thermal Paper Products
High Temperature Gaskets
Spackling Compounds

Mesothelioma Risk in Electricians

Electricians, like many who work in a specialized trade, face occupational risks. Prior to the 1970's, before the use of asbestos was banned in the United States, many skilled tradesmen were unknowingly exposed to asbestos on the job. Because the true safety hazards associated with working with asbestos were kept hidden from workers by asbestos companies, the majority of those working with it day in and day out did not know to take proper precaution. As a result, they are now at risk of developing mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer.

Mesothelioma is characterized by a long latency period. As a result, outward signs and symptoms of the disease may not become apparent for thirty or more years after exposure to asbestos occurred. Therefore, anyone who worked many years ago in an occupation where asbestos use was prevalent, like electrical contractors, should be aware of what typical mesothelioma symptoms are. If you were once an electrician and are now experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, a cough that won't go away and extreme tiredness, it would be wise to seek medical attention. You may also request more information about asbestos and mesothelioma by filling out the form on this page.