Heavy construction crews working in steel mills across West Virginia—especially at places like Weirton Steel—faced some of the most dangerous asbestos exposure conditions in the industrial era. These workers weren’t typical plant employees. They were brought in to rebuild massive structures like coke batteries, overhead cranes, boilers, and blast furnaces. And almost every one of those jobs involved disturbing asbestos.
Why Heavy Construction Steel Mills Were So Hazardous
During mill shutdowns or major overhauls, construction contractors were hired to demolish and rebuild entire sections of the plant. These included high-heat environments where asbestos was used to insulate:
- Refractory brick linings
- Crane brakes and housings
- Hot tops, ladles, and pouring spouts
- Industrial boilers and turbines
- Pipe coverings, block insulation, and cement
When these systems were torn out and replaced, clouds of asbestos dust were released into the air—putting everyone on the job at risk, from the crane riggers to the cleanup crew.
👉 Search Asbestos Job Sites in West Virginia
Secondary Exposure Was Common
Crews were often bussed in from other counties, and few wore proper protective gear. Many brought the dust home on clothing, exposing wives and children in the process. These cases of take-home asbestos exposure continue to surface decades later.
If you or a loved one worked on a heavy construction crew at a steel mill in West Virginia and later developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, legal help is available. The Law Offices of Lee W. Davis can help you identify responsible companies and pursue compensation.
Call (412) 781-0525 or contact us online for a free consultation. No fee unless we win.
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