Be Aware of Asbestos

Asbestos awareness is the subject of a nationwide campaign for February and March, targeting building maintenance and repair workers (electricians, plumbers, carpenters and joiners) using the theme 'You are more at risk than you think!' Twenty tradespeople die of asbestos-related diseases every week and asbestos exposure is Britain’s biggest workplace killer.

The initiative is being co-ordinated by the Health & Safety Executive to highlight the health risks linked to exposure to asbestos.  A recent survey by the British Lung Foundation identified that only 12% of those questioned realised that exposure could lead to the incurable lung cancer mesothelioma. The disease develops between 15 and 60 years after exposure and although asbestos is not present in any building constructed since 2000, schools, hospitals, ships, offices, factories and homes contain up to six million tonnes of asbestos.

There are three main types of asbestos - blue, brown and white – all of which are dangerous if the dust is inhaled.  Asbestos materials in good condition are safe unless the asbestos fibres become airborne, which happens when the materials are damaged.  In the UK, it was used extensively as a building material and fire proofer from the 1950’s through to the mid-1980’s.

Although the importation, supply and use of all asbestos throughout Britain is now prohibited, there is a misconception that it is a thing of the past so no-one should worry about it. However, the effects of exposure are not immediately evident and workers who smoke are at a much greater risk of developing lung cancer.

Some of PH Jones’ work involves central heating replacement within properties where asbestos is present.  For this reason, all engineers are trained in asbestos awareness.  This begins with checking with the site owner whether there may be asbestos present, and minimising risk through Personal Protective Equipment and appointing specialist asbestos removal contractors.

Principal Health & Safety Officer, Ray Crump commented:

“This is a silent killer, and we train all of our engineers to follow health and safety guidelines to ensure that they do not put themselves or others at risk.  We are passionate about keeping our employees, our clients and residents safe, and when you realise that every week three plumbers and six electricians die from asbestos related diseases, this shows how important safe working practices are.”

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