Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters were often exposed to asbestos through their work. Most homes and buildings built before the mid 1970’s used asbestos containing plumbing products such as pipe block, pipe coating, cement insulation, insulation mud, and gaskets. Although most American made plumbing materials are no longer manufactured with asbestos, plumbers may still come into contact with asbestos if they work in older houses and buildings. For example, when plumbers cut asbestos paper, saw, soldered and joined pipes, or sand down block insulation in older structures, they may release asbestos fibers into the air, which may lead to cancer. In addition, plumbers often work in cramped spaces which make it even more likely for them to inhale or ingest airborne fibers.