Plumbers and pipe fitters install and repair pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other fluids or gases. Although considered one trade, plumbers install and repair water, waste, and gas systems in homes and commercial buildings and pipe fitters install and repair pipe systems used in manufacturing and work on pipe systems that generate electricity and heat and cool buildings. Some pipe fitters specialize in one type of system. Steamfitters are pipe fitters who install pipe systems that move liquids or gases under high pressure.
Plumbers and pipe fitters study blueprints and inspect buildings. They cut, saw, bend, assemble, and install the pipe, fixtures, and appliances. Plumbers also repair and maintain plumbing, modify existing pipe systems and maintain related equipment.
In decades past asbestos was included in pipe block and cement insulation, gaskets, and pipe coating. Steamfitters often had to remove and/or clean asbestos gaskets that adhered to pipe flanges or valves. Often a wire brush driven by an electric motor was used to clean gaskets. This resulted in high dust levels that contained asbestos. Exposure to the asbestos dust has lead to many cases of lung disease, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
The information provided in this site is general in nature and constitutes neither legal nor medical advice. If you are concerned that you or someone you know is at risk of an asbestos-related disease, please consult your physician and an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation cases.
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