Construction workers being exposed to asbestos is a major issue, since unlike an on-the-job accident, any physical signs of the sickness
take several years to manifest.
Asbestos exposure is affecting an increasing number of individuals, with roughly 5000 cases of asbestos-related diseases recorded each
year.
Even though the public is becoming more aware of the hazards of asbestos and more is being done to mitigate the risks, this figure
continues to rise.
Simon Clark is someone who is all too aware of the hazards.
Over 40 years ago, he was an apprentice.
He made a short film to tell his experience and to raise awareness about the risks of asbestos to other employees.
Following his apprenticeship all those years ago, Simon says in the video below that it took 35 to 40 years for any symptoms to appear.
Asbestos exposure causes illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer, pleural thickening, and Mesothelioma in the lungs.
Because there is presently no treatment for mesothelioma, it is the most severe of the asbestos-related illnesses.
The disease spreads quickly, and once identified, the patient’s life expectancy is extremely low.
Make sure you’re up to date on asbestos laws.
Any structure built before the year 2000 is likely to contain asbestos in some form or another.
People were previously ignorant of the perils of asbestos and the threats it presented to their health until recently.
Since then, things have altered a little, and the construction industry has taken steps to minimise or decrease worker exposure to
asbestos.
Construction employees are now required to complete obligatory training to ensure that they are informed of the hazards of asbestos and
how to protect themselves.
Employers must also be knowledgeable about health and safety regulations.
If you don’t already know, here’s what you need to know as an employer about asbestos and how to safeguard your employees:-
Ascertain that all employees and others who may enter the building are aware of the presence of asbestos (s).
Ascertain that your staff receive enough asbestos awareness training.
Ascertain that control mechanisms are in place to manage exposure, and that your employees are provided with the necessary personal
protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., helmets, hoods, visors, or other types of respiratory protection equipment).
Make medical surveillance arrangements in accordance with the rules and procedures.
Ensure that the control measures are implemented correctly by providing appropriate supervision.
Workers must also be informed of the dangers of asbestos.
When it comes to asbestos, though, employers aren’t the only ones that have duties. When it comes to asbestos, you, as an employee,
must take responsibility for yourself and those workers around you. You must do the following:
Follow the laws and regulations set out by your company to ensure your safety.
Always use the PPE that has been supplied to you.
If you suspect you’ve found asbestos, leave the area immediately and tell management and your coworkers.
