Demolition Workers

Demolition crews removed walls, ceilings, floors, roofs and mechanical systems, often within a single project. Pipe insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, fireproofing and other materials were broken apart together. Heavy equipment and hand tools created large amounts of dust in a short time. Workers often had no respiratory protection at all. If you did demolition work, describe the types of buildings, their approximate age, the methods used, such as hand demolition or machinery, and whether debris was wetted down or left dry. Dust often covered workers from head to toe by the end of a shift, and clothes went home unwashed.

Current rules generally require an asbestos inspection before demolition and removal of certain asbestos materials by trained abatement crews. Wetting materials helps keep fibers from becoming airborne, and containment limits how far dust can travel. These practices greatly reduce exposure compared to earlier decades. If your demolition work happened before these controls were common, or on jobs where they weren't followed, note that in your history. It helps explain the level of exposure you may have had and why it matters to your claim. Tell your case reviewer whether you ever saw abatement crews working before your crew began tearing down.

Demolition workers often worked for many contractors on many projects, sometimes several in a single month. Records may be limited, so your memory of specific buildings matters a great deal. Try to recall notable structures, such as factories, schools, hospitals, power plants or ships, along with their locations. Union records, Social Security earnings statements and coworkers can help fill gaps. Each building may point to different asbestos products and different responsible companies, so a detailed list is worth the effort. Old newspaper stories about demolished landmarks can sometimes help confirm dates and locations.

1. 1

   List the demolition projects you remember, including the building type and location.

2. 2

   Describe the methods and any protection used on your earliest demolition jobs.

3. 3

   Request union and Social Security records to confirm your employers by year.

4. 4

   Find coworkers who can describe the conditions on your largest demolition projects.