What is Asbestos Awareness Week?

Asbestos Awareness Week is a crucial time to educate people on the dangers of asbestos exposure, how to identify it and the steps needed to prevent serious health risks. Despite being banned in the UK in 1999 asbestos remains present in many older buildings, posing a hidden threat to workers, homeowners and the general public.

The Dangers of Asbestos

Asbestos fibres, when disturbed, can become airborne and easily inhaled. Over time, exposure can lead to severe health conditions including:

• Mesothelioma – An aggressive cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Around 2,700 people in the UK are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year, often decades after initial exposure.

• Asbestosis – A chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibres, leading to scarring of the lungs and difficulty breathing.

• Lung Cancer & Other Respiratory Diseases – Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer and other serious conditions.

Even if asbestos is not actively disturbed, living or working in an environment where it is poorly managed can release harmful fibres into the air, increasing the risk of illness.

How Widespread is Asbestos?

Despite its ban, asbestos remains a widespread issue:

• An estimated 1.5 million buildings in the UK still contain asbestos.

• Many of these buildings were constructed before the 1999 asbestos ban, meaning the material could still be present in homes, schools, offices, and industrial sites.

• Employers are legally required to assess for asbestos before any construction or maintenance work takes place, ensuring appropriate safety measures are in place.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Understanding the risks of asbestos and knowing how to manage it safely is essential. Whether you're a business owner, contractor, or simply someone working or living in an older building, awareness can help prevent exposure.