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Construction

Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)

Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)

Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) Willis Tower, originally known as the Sears Tower, was the world's tallest building when completed in 1973. The 110-story skyscraper was constructed using asbestos-containing fireproofing and insulation materials in its structural systems and mechanical infrastructure, exposing construction and maintenance workers to hazardous fibers.

Last verified: 2026-03-09
Written by Paul Danziger, J.D. & Rod De Llano, J.D.
•
Legally reviewed by Michelle Whitman, Mesothelioma Litigation Specialist
•
30+ years of mesothelioma litigation experience
Location
Chicago, IL
Industry
Commercial Construction
Exposure Era
1970–1973
Primary Asbestos Products
Spray-on fireproofing, Pipe insulation, Floor tiles, HVAC insulation, Electrical conduit insulation
Job Categories at Risk
Construction workers, Maintenance workers, Electricians, Plumbers, HVAC technicians, Elevator mechanics

History & Asbestos Use

Built between 1970 and 1973 for Sears, Roebuck and Company, the tower was constructed during a period when asbestos use in high-rise construction was still common but beginning to face regulatory scrutiny. Spray-on asbestos fireproofing was applied to structural steel, and asbestos insulation was used in the building's massive mechanical systems. The building was renamed Willis Tower in 2009. Ongoing renovation and modernization projects have included asbestos abatement in affected areas.

Exposure Details

Asbestos-containing spray-on fireproofing was applied to structural steel beams and columns during construction. The tower's extensive HVAC systems, which service 4.5 million square feet of floor space, used asbestos insulation on ductwork and piping. Maintenance workers accessing mechanical floors, elevator shafts, and utility spaces encountered asbestos insulation during routine repairs and system upgrades.

Workers at Risk

The following job categories at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:

  • Construction workers
  • Maintenance workers
  • Electricians
  • Plumbers
  • HVAC technicians
  • Elevator mechanics

Health Effects

Construction workers who built the Sears Tower and the maintenance workers who have operated its complex building systems faced asbestos exposure risks. The building's 110 floors contain miles of piping and ductwork that required insulation, creating widespread exposure potential. Workers performing renovations in occupied spaces had to manage asbestos disturbance carefully to protect both workers and building occupants.

Health information is based on established medical research on asbestos exposure. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult a physician for medical advice specific to your situation.

Compensation May Be Available

Workers exposed to asbestos at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds, personal injury lawsuits, or veterans benefits. Mesothelioma patients and their families have recovered billions in compensation from companies that manufactured or used asbestos products.

Find Out If You Qualify

Were You Exposed to Asbestos at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)?

Workers who were employed at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) between 1970–1973 may have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may have legal options including trust fund claims and lawsuits.

Speak with an Attorney — Free Request a Free Case Evaluation

Related Exposure Sites

Construction

John Hancock Center

Chicago, IL

Treatment Centers in Illinois

If you were exposed to asbestos at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in Illinois may be able to help.

University of Chicago Medicine

University of Chicago Medicine

Chicago, IL

Comprehensive Cancer Center
View Full Profile
Northwestern Medicine (Lurie Cancer Center)

Northwestern Medicine (Lurie Cancer Center)

Chicago, IL

Comprehensive Cancer Center
View Full Profile

Browse all treatment centers →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Willis Tower still contain asbestos?

Asbestos abatement has been conducted during various renovation projects since the 1980s. Given the massive scale of the building, asbestos management is an ongoing process, with remaining materials managed in compliance with federal and state regulations.

Was the Sears Tower built with asbestos?

Yes. The Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) was built between 1970 and 1973, when asbestos-containing spray-on fireproofing and insulation were still commonly used in high-rise construction. These materials were applied throughout the tower's structural and mechanical systems.

Who should be concerned about asbestos exposure from Willis Tower?

Construction workers who built the tower, building maintenance engineers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and renovation contractors who have worked in the building's mechanical spaces and utility areas over the decades.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one worked at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, our attorneys can help you explore your legal options. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.

Free & Confidential No upfront costs, no hidden fees. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Nationwide Representation Licensed to handle mesothelioma cases in all 50 states from our Houston office.
Over 25 Years of Experience Our attorneys have recovered over $2 billion for mesothelioma patients and families.
Fast Results Trust fund claims can resolve in as few as 90 days. We move quickly for our clients.

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Sources:

  • EPA records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • OSHA compliance records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • Chicago Department of Buildings records — accessed 2026-03-09
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