The British Lung Foundation (BLF) has launched a major asbestos campaign last week with the aim to reduce the current toll of 20 construction workers dying every week from asbestos illnesses.

The campaign called “Take 5 and stay alive” is aimed at trades people (electricians, plumbers, joiners, etc…) who are the most exposed to the risks.

This campaign also highlights the fact that people who expose themselves to asbestos, will in return expose the people around including their families.

Dr Penny Woods, Chief Executive of the British Lung Foundation says “Our message is simple – taking just five minutes to assess the situation could save your life, and keep your family, friends, clients and business safe from exposure to potentially fatal asbestos dust.”

Simon Ward, Director at Maylarch, also commented: “It’s astonishing to think that asbestos is killing 20 tradesmen every week, and still every day there are workers and employers out there out there who are prepared to take the risk instead of taking a step back and asking the right questions.

HSE are very clear that they expect employers to protect their workforce from the risks of asbestos. Of course the risk does not only apply to construction workers. All buildings constructed prior to 1999 when asbestos was eventually banned have a high risk of containing asbestos. This includes Schools, offices, shops and factories. Consequently the HSE have made it mandatory for all non domestic buildings to have an assessment made or survey carried out, and to have a written plan for managing the risk from asbestos.

Those employers or building occupiers that do not comply with this legal and moral responsibility run the risk of being prosecuted by the HSE, who now specifically target asbestos management each time they visit a premises, regardless of the reason for the initial visit.”

If you are working on a building where you suspect the presence of Asbestos or if you manage a building which may contains Asbestos Materials, do not run the risk of exposing yourself and the people around you to Asbestos.

Give us a call and get an expert opinion from one of our Asbestos Surveying team member on 01865 88 38 29