Asbestos is a word that many people associate with danger—and for good reason. Once widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its fire-resistant properties, asbestos is now known to be a significant health hazard. Despite its ban in many countries, asbestos remains present in countless buildings and structures, posing ongoing risks.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of flexible fibres that are resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion. It was used extensively in insulation, roofing, flooring, and fireproofing materials throughout the 20th century. However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) deteriorate or are disturbed, they release tiny fibres into the air. When inhaled, these fibres can lead to serious health conditions.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Exposure to asbestos is a well-documented health hazard. The primary risks include:
- Asbestosis – A chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to scarring of lung tissue and difficulty breathing.
- Lung Cancer – A significantly increased risk for those exposed to asbestos, particularly when combined with smoking.
- Mesothelioma – A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen, almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.
- Pleural Thickening and Plaques – Non-cancerous conditions that affect lung function and cause chest pain or discomfort.
Due to the long latency period, symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not appear until decades after exposure, making early detection and prevention essential.
How to Manage Asbestos Risks
If you own or manage a building constructed before the 2000s, there’s a chance it contains asbestos. Here’s what you can do:
1. Identify and Assess Risk
Conduct an asbestos survey to determine the presence of ACMs.
If present, regularly monitor materials to ensure they remain undisturbed and in good condition.
2. Manage and Control
If asbestos is in good condition, it’s often safer to leave it undisturbed and implement an asbestos management plan.
For high-risk materials, encapsulation (sealing) or removal by licensed professionals may be necessary.
3. Train and Inform
Ensure workers, contractors, and occupants are aware of asbestos risks.
Provide asbestos awareness training to those likely to encounter ACMs in their work.
4. Compliance with Regulations
Follow legal requirements for asbestos management as per The Control Of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Work with specialists to ensure safe removal and disposal, preventing illegal or unsafe handling.
Asbestos may no longer be used in new construction, but its presence in older buildings means the risk remains. Identifying, managing, and controlling asbestos exposure is crucial to protecting health and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Have questions about asbestos in your building? Get in touch today.
