November 18, 2009—A new generation of workers is at risk unless building trades get to grips with Britain’s biggest workplace killer, asbestos, safety campaigners are warning. Figures from the U.K.’s 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, says HSE.
Across Britain, more than 35,000 people died from the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma between 1977 and 2007, and the numbers dying are increasing. The latest annual figures show that 2,156 people died from the disease in 2007 alone, up five percent from the previous year.
HSE recently 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 advertisements. The campaign is being backed by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), trade unions, trade associations, training organizations, charities and victim support groups.
The campaign aims to educate workers about the dangers of asbestos. Research shows that tradesmen in particular think that asbestos is a historical problem and they are not at risk. HSE asserts that asbestos exposure 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 fibers being released into the air by drilling or cutting, and workers breathing them in, reminds HSE. If asbestos-containing material is in good condition and in a position where it is unlikely to be disturbed or damaged, it is safer to leave it where it is and ensure that the risks are managed.
Those responsible for managing building maintenance and repair of non-domestic buildings have a duty to inform tradesmen if asbestos is present in a building where they are working. Most work with asbestos containing materials will need to be carried out by a contractor licensed by HSE. Non-licensed workers can carry out some tasks depending on the type of asbestos-containing material, the work to be done, and whether they have been trained and the proper controls are in place.
HSE is offering a free asbestos information pack by calling 0845 345 0055 or by visiting the Asbestos: The Hidden Killer Web site. 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.
