Asbestos Awareness
Asbestos, once a widely used construction material for its fire-resistant properties, has become a notorious health hazard in the workplace. In the UK, its usage peaked in the mid-20th century, and as a result, numerous buildings still contain asbestos. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres poses severe health risks, including lung diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The insidious nature of these diseases often means symptoms manifest years, even decades, after initial exposure.
Tragically, work-related deaths linked to asbestos exposure remain a concerning issue in the UK. Asbestos is the greatest cause of work-related deaths in Great Britain. Around 5,000 people die every year from asbestos-related diseases. Despite stringent regulations and awareness campaigns, the long latency period of asbestos-related diseases contributes to a persistent toll on workers' health. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK continues to monitor and regulate asbestos-related activities to mitigate the risks, emphasising the importance of proper management and removal procedures.
Efforts to raise awareness, implement safety protocols, and provide comprehensive training for workers in industries at risk of asbestos exposure are crucial in reducing work-related deaths. The legacy of past asbestos use serves as a poignant reminder of the imperative to prioritise occupational health and safety, ensuring that current and future generations are safeguarded from the devastating consequences of asbestos exposure in the workplace.
The HSE has recently refreshed their asbestos guidance. The updated webpages include the following:
Introduction to Asbestos Safety
The Duty to Manage Asbestos in Buildings
A Workers' Guide to Asbestos Safety
Locations of Asbestos and Taking the Right Action
