Why is Asbestos so Dangerous?
Although the use of asbestos in buildings now is illegal; the existence of asbestos materials in older buildings continues to kill around 5000 workers every year. Predominantly tradespeople as they work on buildings – around 20 deaths every week are as a result of exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is usually safe when it is not disturbed; it is when it is damaged that the harmful fibres are released into the air. Breathing in these fibres causes serious health problems. The following diseases can result from asbestos exposure:
Asbestosis
This is a scarring of the lungs following prolonged exposure to asbestos over many years. It causes shortness of breath and in severe cases is fatal.
Asbestos-related Lung Cancer
A similar looking cancer to that caused by smoking, Asbestos related lung cancer can also be fatal and is a result of exposure to asbestos fibres. People who smoke in addition to being exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing lung cancer.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer which targets the lung lining and lower digestive system. It is mainly caused by exposure to asbestos and by the point of diagnosis it is usually fatal.
Pleural Thickening
A common problem after repeated exposure to asbestos fibres is the thickening of the lung lining. This can start to squeeze the lung and in turn cause shortness of breath.
Duty to Manage Asbestos
If asbestos is suspected to be present on a property and there are works planned to demolish or renovate then it is important to understand how it needs to be managed. The legal requirements for this are available on the HSE website HERE.
Knight Specialist Services can assist by first carrying out a survey to establish is asbestos is present, and then if necessary putting together an Asbestos Management plan. Call us today on 0161 333 0767 or get in touch through our contact page.
