Asbestos - How long before it becomes eradicated?

Today the health impact of inhaling asbestos is common knowledge; so why are Asbestosis and Mesothelioma still so common? In fact, a recent report showed that there are 5000 asbestos-related deaths a year; which is more than the reported number of road traffic fatalities.

There are three main types of asbestos; Amosite (brown), Crocidolite (blue) and Chrysotile (white). Amosite and Crocidolite are less commonly found than Chrysotile, as these were banned outright in 1985. Chrysotile, however, was not banned until 1999, but why is the risk of exposure so high?

Asbestos is made from tiny shard-like fibres, which when inhaled can cause serious damage. These fibres are released when the material is disturbed, e.g. if it’s sawn, broken, or simply moved. The inhalation of these fibres can cause scarring of the lungs, called Asbestosis. But this isn’t the most serious health risk posed by asbestos – inhalation of fibres can also cause Mesothelioma, which is a cancer that is very often deadly by the time it is diagnosed.

The number of asbestos-related deaths has been steadily rising for the past 30 years, as the effects of past occupational exposure come to light. Because of this, it is vital to protect yourself and those around you from asbestos.

In the majority of cases, any work involving asbestos requires a licensed contractor. If the work does not require a licence, it still needs to be controlled. Unfortunately, examples of mistreatment of asbestos are still being reported. An asbestos removal supervisor has been handed a 6-month prison sentence (suspended for 18 months) and fined £1.5 million after admitting to exposing several workers to asbestos fibres during licensed asbestos removal works. Workers were allowed into a sealed area without the necessary personal protective clothing or respiratory equipment. These workers should have been protected by The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which states that anyone maintaining a non-residential property has a duty to manage the asbestos in them.

Following correct procedure is something people should hold themselves accountable for, however having the correct training is essential. The Asbestos Awareness Training we offer at iHASCO is CPD accredited, IAPT, IOSH and RoSPA approved and covers key information on asbestos, like its structure and use, where it can be found, and emergency procedure. Don’t leave the quality of your own health up to chance.