Campaign highlighting asbestos risks targets young workers

A campaign has been launched to increase awareness of the risks from asbestos amongst young workers.

Led by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the campaign, titled ‘Asbestos and You,’ focuses on making young people working in trades such as plastering and joinery understand more about the risks associated with asbestos exposure, and refute the perception that it is an issue only affecting older workers.

Knowing the asbestos risks

Asbestos is the single greatest cause of work-related deaths in the UK. In 2020 there were over 5,000 deaths linked to previous exposure to asbestos. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancers – although it can be 20 to 30 years before symptoms appear.

Materials containing the dangerous substance were used as part of the construction of buildings from the 1950s until they were banned in 1999. According to the HSE, it’s estimated that 50% of homes in the UK contain asbestos, meaning workers could still be exposed to it today.

The HSE is concerned that the length of time for symptoms to appear could lead to the perception amongst young workers that asbestos-related diseases only affect older workers who were working before the use of asbestos was banned.

As part of the campaign, asbestos essentials task sheets will be made available to employers in building, maintenance and allied trades. These provide detail on how to safely carry out non-licensed work involving asbestos and will provide guidance on how to plan work safely.

In some cases, where asbestos cannot be safely managed, a licensed asbestos contractor will need to remove it.

As an employer, being aware of the risks of asbestos is a crucial part of being able to keep your employees safe at work. For more information, speak to a member of the Aegis team today to find out how we can support you.