News

Health & Safety Update (November 2009)

Deadly asbestos

Safety campaigners have warned that a new generation of workers is at risk unless building trades get to grips with Britain's biggest workplace killer – asbestos.

Figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that around a quarter of the 4,000 or so people dying from asbestos-related diseases each year in Britain are tradesmen such as joiners, electricians and plumbers. About twenty lose their lives each week. Across Britain, more than 35,000 people died from the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma between 1977 and 2007 - and the numbers dying are increasing. Latest annual figures show that 2,156 people died from the disease in 2007 alone, up five per cent on the previous year.

To combat this, HSE has launched a £1.2 million, month-long campaign to warn Britain's 1.8 million tradesmen about the dangers they face.  Asbestos: The Hidden Killer runs throughout November and will see more than 500,000 information packs sent out, as well as targeted press and radio adverts.

The campaign aims to educate workers about the danger asbestos presents. Research shows that tradesmen in particular think that asbestos is a historical problem and they are not at risk. But it is a real risk facing plumbers, joiners, electricians, painters and decorators and many other maintenance workers every day. Asbestos may be present in any building constructed or refurbished before the year 2000, and it is estimated that around 500,000 workplace premises could contain asbestos. If repair and maintenance work is not done safely it can lead to asbestos fibres being released into the air by drilling or cutting, and workers breathing them in. Today's workforce needs education about the risks and what action they need to take to protect themselves from this deadly dust.

The campaign is being backed by the TUC, trade unions, trade associations, training organisations, charities and victim support groups.

Posters and radio adverts are currently encouraging tradesmen to get a free asbestos information pack by calling 0845 345 0055 or by visiting www.hse.gov.uk/hiddenkiller. The information highlights where asbestos-containing materials may be present, what they look like, how they should be dealt with and where to find training.

The advice line or your dedicated Consultant can also provide you with information regarding asbestos related concerns.