Asbestos minerals are divided into six groups. One of these is the crocidolite, also known as Blue Asbestos. Crocidolite gained its popularity from the fact that its individual needle-like fibers are the strongest of all asbestos fibers. This particular form of asbestos is not just resistant to heat, but is also highly resistant to the corrosive action of acids. This made it the perfect material for industrial purposes.

How Was Asbestos Used in Gaskets?

Crocidolite is one of the most lethal forms of asbestos and its importance peaked in the 1950’s. This acid and heat-resistant form of asbestos was used for braided and laminated packing. Its long and plaint fibers were woven into fabrics used in acid-resistant gaskets and packing. It was also used as a molded gland packing in sealing openings in various industrial applications. Its high bulk volume contributed to crocidolite being used in sprayed insulations. These gaskets and packing pose maximum danger to industrial workers who have to remove them as a part of regular maintenance activities. Because these gaskets undergo deterioration and get damaged, they have a dangerous potential to release airborne asbestos fibers.

How Should Asbestos Gaskets Be Handled?

The OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has set certain precautions in place for people handling gasket removal. However, many of these precautions are not feasible. For instance, wetting is not feasible when dealing with freezing or hot pipes. Using a glove bag is dangerous when using power tools like a drill. So, many of these precautions are foregone in the course of daily work.

What Are the Dangers of Asbestos Gaskets?

The connection between asbestos and lung diseases was known since the 1920’s. Despite warnings, companies did nothing to protect their workers from the toxic effects of asbestos. Workers were, and are, often exposed to airborne asbestos fibers in the course of their daily work activities. Inhaling deadly asbestos fibers is dangerous. Replacing asbestos-containing gaskets and packing material with eco-friendly material does not spell the end of the problem because asbestos-induced diseases are usually dormant for up to 45 years or more.

An increasing number of new cases of asbestos-related lung diseases are seen in workers, builders, and renovators who have been exposed to fibers through products manufactured during the 1950s. If you suspect that you could be exposed to these deadly asbestos fibers, write to us. We can help you find out whether you are eligible for coverage.