Fireproofing Spray

Workers mixed fireproofing material and sprayed it through hoses onto beams, columns and decking. The material often missed its target, falling to the floor and drifting through open floors under construction. Overspray and debris were later swept up, sending fibers back into the air. Sprayed material was also used on ceilings for fire protection and acoustic purposes. Because this work happened while buildings were still open and many trades were present, exposure extended well beyond the spray crews. Ironworkers, electricians, plumbers, carpenters and laborers often worked on the same floors.

Concerns about sprayed asbestos in construction led the EPA to ban most spray-applied asbestos materials used for fireproofing and insulation in 1973, under its hazardous air pollutant rules. Some cities acted around the same time. After this point, builders shifted to non-asbestos fireproofing, but buildings finished before the ban could still contain asbestos materials. Renovation and demolition of those buildings later created new exposure risks for workers, which is why inspections are now required before such work begins. The ban did not require removal of material already in place. Instead, later rules focused on managing it safely and controlling exposure when buildings are renovated or demolished.

For commercial buildings, owners often have asbestos surveys that identify fireproofing materials and their locations. Construction records, specifications and permits can show which products were specified. Unions representing the trades on a project may have dispatch records confirming who worked there. If you worked on high-rise construction in the 1960s or early 1970s, list the buildings, cities and approximate years. Many buildings and fireproofing products from that era have been part of earlier asbestos cases, so product information may already be known. Photographs from job sites and old pay stubs can also confirm which projects you were on.

1. 1

   List high-rise or commercial construction projects you worked on before the mid-1970s.

2. 2

   Note whether spray fireproofing was being applied on floors where you worked.

3. 3

   Contact your union local about dispatch records for large construction projects.

4. 4

   Ask building owners for asbestos survey records if you worked on later renovations.