Asbestos drive to cut toll of 20 deaths a week

Are you aware of asbestos?The British Lung Foundation has said that every week on average 20 tradesmen – 6 electricians, 4 plumbers and 8 joiners die in the UK from exposure to asbestos.

The material was outlawed in 2000 but thousands of buildings still contain asbestos.

Federation research showed a worrying lack of information and training among small employers and sole traders, with workers not seeing it as a big risk or worrying about losing jobs and money if they raise concerns, and not knowing how to identify asbestos and what to do if they find asbestos.

When disturbed and inhaled, asbestos fibres can cause a range of illnesses, including the terminal chest cancer mesothelioma.

The tiny invisible particles stick to clothes, meaning that as well as risking their own lives, workers can be unknowingly putting their family members, colleagues and friends at risk.

British Lung Foundation Chief Executive Dr Penny Woods said: “Twice as many people die from asbestos-related illnesses than on the roads each year in Britain. It’s the biggest work-related killer, and the numbers of deaths associated with it are rising each year”.

Mainline Training Centre can offer asbestos awareness courses to help employees and tradesmen understand the risks and problems associated with working in areas where asbestos may be present. Speak to us today for course information and availability.

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