Dangers of Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos is well-known as one of the most dangerous materials ever used in construction. While we think of it as a bygone product, having been banned in the industry for more than 20 years, its impact on people’s health remains noticeable to this day.
In this article, we’re going to look at the dangers inherent in exposure to asbestos and what you need to do to protect your workers or residents from asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on your property.
How dangerous is asbestos?
The latest statistics indicate that around 5000 people a year in the UK die from medical conditions caused or exacerbated by their exposure to asbestos. That is more than the number of people who die as a result of a road traffic collision.
Around 20% of those affected are tradespeople who handled asbestos in the past.
Why is asbestos still a risk today?
Although asbestos has been banned in construction since 2000, many properties that were built before then still contain ACMs. When these materials deteriorate or are disturbed, they release small fibres into the atmosphere that can be easily inhaled, affecting the lungs and respiratory system and causing a variety of harmful and potentially deadly diseases.
Diseases caused by exposure to asbestos
There are several diseases that have a direct causal link to asbestos exposure. These are just some of the most common ones:
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a specific form of cancer that affects both the lining of the lungs (pleura) and the lower digestive tract lining (peritoneum). Almost without exception, this particular cancer is related to exposure to asbestos. Since its symptoms develop gradually, by the time the condition has been diagnosed, it is almost always fatal.
Asbestos-related lung cancer
This is a form of lung cancer that, at first glance, is the same type caused by smoking. However, a more thorough investigation can determine that asbestos is the cause of the disease.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis typically develops over many years of exposure to asbestos and is common among tradespeople involved in the construction sector while ACMs were still in regular use. It causes a scarring of the lungs, which is extremely painful and manifests as a severe shortness of breath. In severe cases, the condition can even be fatal.
Pleural thickening
Extensive exposure to asbestos can result in pleural thickening. The asbestos fibres cause the lining of the person’s lungs to swell and thicken, which can result in the lung itself being squeezed. This causes considerable discomfort to the person affected and leads to shortness of breath.
How to protect against asbestos
Whether you’re a landlord or an employer, you have a responsibility to the residents of your building to ensure they are not needlessly exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you are aware of or suspect that you have ACMs in your building, it is important that you subject them to a regular asbestos survey to establish any risk.
Client Feedback
Get in touch
Here at Dromore Safety Services Ltd, we perform detailed and accurate asbestos surveys for companies and individuals across the UK. Call the team on 07717 210 323 to discuss your situation, and we will put together a suitable plan of action.
Latest Posts
-
How CHAS Enhances Workplace Safety on Construction Sites
22 April, 2024 -
When Should You Update Your Health and Safety Policy?
23 February, 2024 -
The Importance of Workplace Inspections
20 January, 2024 -
Ten Most Common Health and Safety Risks in the Construction Industry
12 December, 2023
