Steam or pipe fitter
A steam fitter or pipefitter is someone who Installs, inspects, maintains and repairs steam and heating systems and such equipment as boilers, oil burners, radiators, valves, pumps, traps, and laundry and kitchen equipment; repairs and substitutes pipe and pipe coverings; welds and threads pipe; performs disassembling valves and equipment, replacing worn parts, and reassembling and testing equipment and cleans, maintains and repairs tools and equipment. Normally, this title is used for someone who does these works on extensive projects, such as big commercial buildings. A pipefitter that works on housing properties is generally referred to as a plumber.
Steam Fitters & Asbestos Exposure
Almost all tasks of a steam fitter carry the hazard of asbestos exposure. Asbestos insulation was extensively used in industry as well as construction due to its excellent fire and heat resistant properties. Asbestos is resistant to corrosion and acid as well. Therefore, it was widely used in chemical laboratories and plants too. Before1980s, almost all pipes were insulated with asbestos. Therefore, pipe fitters should have exposed to the cancer-causing substance whenever they have handled these pipes. Asbestos-related usually takes decades to develop after the initial exposure to asbestos.
Pipefitters use materials like asbestos tapes, canvas and paints designed to seal and insulate pipes while maintaining the pipe. Pipefitters may inhale asbestos particles while dealing these materials. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause deadly diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Pipe fitter frequently drill or cut holes in wall and ceilings for installing or removing pipes. If this job is done in a building built before 1980, the pipefitter has the great risk of contracting asbestos-related diseases because almost all those buildings contain asbestos. Asbestos is extremely dangerous when disturbed as its particles become airborne and easily inhalable.