Asbestos Pipe Covering
Before Mesothelioma was understood, one of the largest uses of asbestos was in pipe covering. Asbestos pipe covering was used in many different ways, especially as an insulator for steam pipes and in the ship building industry. These asbestos pipe coverings are now being replaced with other types of coverings, but those who have been exposed to it could be in danger of getting Mesothelioma.
Why Was Asbestos Pipe Covering Used?
Before we became aware of the dangers of asbestos in causing Mesothelioma, it appeared that asbestos had many beneficial properties that would make an excellent pipe covering. It had good insulating properties, was strong, and fire-resistant. Asbestos had also been used for many years as people were not aware of the danger in doing so.
How Do You Get Exposed to Asbestos through Asbestos Pipe Coverings
The biggest danger of contracting Mesothelioma through asbestos pipe coverings is in two ways - either you have installed asbestos pipe coverings and used a saw to cut the pipes, or if you have been around asbestos pipes that are deteriorating and some asbestos fibers have been released. You can also be exposed to asbestos if you are in the same area as someone who is installing or removing asbestos pipes.
Asbestos Pipe Covering and a Recycling Report
According to the report “How to Recycle Asbestos Containing Materials” by CM Jantzen and JB Pickett of Westinghouse Savannah River Company, “asbestos covered pipe comprises the largest volume of ACM (Asbestos containing material) at SRS (Savannah River Site) and is also the most difficult to deal with”. The process of recycling the asbestos pipe covering is more difficult than with many other asbestos containing materials.
Asbestos pipe covering was used in the past due to its good insulating properties, strength, and fire-resistance. But, in recent decades, the understanding of the risk of Mesothelioma has meant that these are now being replaced by other pipe coverings. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to recycle asbestos pipe covering. If you have installed asbestos pipe covering or have been exposed to deteriorating pipe covering, then you may be in danger of contracting Mesothelioma.






