Which occupational group is at the highest risk of asbestos-related diseases?

Construction workers are at the highest risk of asbestos-related diseases due to the nature of their work, which often involves exposure to materials that may contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and fireproofing. Many construction activities, including demolition, renovation, and maintenance of older buildings, can disturb these materials, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. This can lead to inhalation or ingestion of the fibers, increasing the risk of diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

In contrast, while healthcare workers may encounter asbestos-related cases, their primary exposure is not through direct contact with asbestos-containing materials. Office workers typically work in environments with little to no asbestos exposure, as modern office buildings are usually constructed with contemporary materials that do not contain asbestos. Engineers may also work in settings where asbestos was present historically, but they often have less direct exposure to asbestos compared to construction workers who handle these materials routinely. Thus, among these occupational groups, construction workers face the greatest risk of asbestos-related health issues.