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Construction

Chrysler Building

Chrysler Building

Chrysler Building The Chrysler Building, one of New York City's most iconic Art Deco skyscrapers, was constructed in 1928-1930 using asbestos-containing materials common to high-rise construction of that era. Decades of maintenance and renovation work exposed building tradespeople to asbestos fireproofing, insulation, and floor materials.

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
New York, NY
Industry
Commercial Construction
Exposure Era
1928–1930
Primary Asbestos Products
Spray-on fireproofing, Pipe insulation, Floor tiles, Ceiling tiles, Electrical insulation
Job Categories at Risk
Construction workers, Maintenance workers, Electricians, Plumbers, HVAC technicians, Elevator mechanics

History & Asbestos Use

Completed in 1930 as the world's tallest building, the 77-story Chrysler Building was constructed using asbestos-based spray-on fireproofing on structural steel, asbestos pipe insulation, and asbestos-containing floor and ceiling tiles. Throughout its nearly 100-year history, maintenance workers, electricians, plumbers, and renovation crews have disturbed these materials during routine work. Asbestos abatement has been conducted during various renovation projects over the decades.

Exposure Details

Asbestos spray-on fireproofing was applied to structural steel columns and beams throughout the building. Pipe insulation in mechanical rooms and utility chases contained asbestos, as did floor tiles on many levels. Workers performing renovations, upgrades, or routine maintenance in mechanical spaces disturbed asbestos materials, releasing fibers into the air.

Workers at Risk

The following job categories at Chrysler Building had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:

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

Health Effects

Building trades workers who maintained or renovated the Chrysler Building over its long history have faced asbestos exposure risks. Electricians and plumbers working in confined utility spaces with deteriorating asbestos insulation faced particularly high exposure levels. The building's age means that original asbestos materials were in place for many decades before abatement.

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 Chrysler Building 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 Chrysler Building?

Workers who were employed at Chrysler Building between 1928–1930 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

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World Trade Center

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Treatment Centers in New York

If you were exposed to asbestos at Chrysler Building and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in New York may be able to help.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

New York, NY

Comprehensive Cancer Center
View Full Profile
Mount Sinai Health System

Mount Sinai Health System

New York, NY

Cancer Center
View Full Profile
NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center

NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center

New York, NY

Comprehensive Cancer Center
View Full Profile

Browse all treatment centers →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Chrysler Building still contain asbestos?

While significant asbestos abatement has been performed during renovations, older sections of the building may still contain asbestos-containing materials in place. Current building codes require proper management of any remaining asbestos.

Who was at risk for asbestos exposure at the Chrysler Building?

Construction workers who built the building in 1928-1930, maintenance workers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and elevator mechanics who worked in the building over the decades faced the greatest asbestos exposure risks.

Are New York City building workers at high risk for asbestos exposure?

Yes. Many of New York City's pre-1980 buildings were constructed with asbestos-containing materials. Building trades workers who maintain, renovate, or demolish these structures face ongoing asbestos exposure risks throughout the city.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one worked at Chrysler Building 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:

  • New York City Department of Environmental Protection records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • OSHA compliance records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • NYC building inspection records — accessed 2026-03-09
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