Most people are familiar with the fact that asbestos is not a safe material but not everyone is aware of quite how serious the associated risks are. Exposure to asbestos can have unwanted symptoms like wheezing, coughing and swelling and that’s at the nice end of the scale.
The biggest problem with asbestos exposure is cancer. A particular type of lung cancer known as mesothelioma which can be devastating. But shockingly, asbestos was used in many building materials especially before 1980. In 1999, it was banned but there are still products that remain but how do you know if you’re exposed? What jobs have exposure to asbestos?
Construction workers, firemen, aircraft and ship builders, oil refinery workers and car mechanics are all at risk of being exposed to asbestos. But these aren’t the only groups of people.
Surprisingly, a job as seemingly innocent as teaching could put you at risk of asbestos exposure if you are working in a school that predates the 1980s. You could also be at risk if you have ever worked in a mine or with machinery. In the past, asbestos was used as a reinforcement in various types of machine.
Furthermore, people who have had industrial jobs such as in a power plant or factory may have been exposed to asbestos when handling certain parts.
There are other jobs that carry a medium risk of asbestos exposure so it’s important to think about where you have been working. These jobs include things like paramedics, electricians, carpenters and plumbers. This is largely because you will be entering various properties, many of which may contain asbestos.
What Should I Do If I Think I Have Been Exposed To Asbestos At Work?
According to asbestos.com, exposure to the material is the leading cause of workplace deaths across the world. That’s a worrying idea so it goes without saying that, if you think you have been exposed to asbestos, you need to act quickly.
One of the most important things to do if you think you have been exposed to asbestos is to seek medical attention. A lot of people primarily concern themselves with suing their employer but this can wait; your health is your main priority.
Even if you aren’t showing any symptoms of asbestos exposure, it’s still a good idea to see your GP. He or she will be able to perform a health check and determine whether there is any cause for concern. However, if you are showing symptoms, it’s even more crucial to book an appointment as soon as possible.
What’s surprising is that even living with someone who has been exposed to asbestos could put you at risk. This is because they may have unknowingly brought fibres home with them that you have gone on to inhale.
Once you have your health in check, you may wish to take action against your employer. The first thing you’ll need to do is to report your employer to the relevant authority. For many workplaces with asbestos risks, this would be the HSE. However, it is a good idea to keep in mind that you can only report your employer if they are not following regulations for asbestos.
It may also be possible to sue your employer for asbestos exposure and there are many legal firms that specialise in this. Do keep in mind that this can be a lengthy and emotionally difficult process so should be undertaken with caution.
Recent Article: Where And How Should Asbestos Be Disposed Of
Who Is Responsible For Preventing You From Being Exposed To Asbestos?
In the United Kingdom, there are incredibly strict rules in place as to the control of asbestos. Regulations were passed in 2012 detailing this and it’s important to keep in mind that your employer is responsible for your safety.
The Control of Asbestos Regulations talk about the action that companies need to take to minimise risks and the training that needs to be provided. There is also a requirement for companies to keep records of everything to do with asbestos and details of these can be found within the regulations.
Your employer has a duty of care to you so anyone managing a non-domestic property should adhere to the following safety rules where asbestos is concerned.
- Assess the possibility of the presence of asbestos, detailing the quantity and condition.
- Record all findings pertaining to the presence of asbestos.
- Perform risk assessments on the likelihood of exposure for staff, visitors and other people who may come to the premises.
- Create a detailed plan on how to handle the asbestos.
- Ensure all employees and visitors are aware of the location of asbestos and the dangers associated with it.
- Provide PPE to employees who may be at risk of exposure.
Conclusion
Asbestos is an incredibly dangerous material but we didn’t always realise the dangers and so it was commonly used in building materials up until 1999. At this point, it was made illegal but products still remain so you must weigh up the risks.
There are some jobs that put you at higher risk of exposure such as mining, working for the fire service, working in a shipyard and even teaching! If you show any signs associated with exposure to asbestos, we would strongly urge you to seek medical advice as in the worst cases, it can lead to a specific type of cancer known as mesothelioma.