Asbestos: An Ongoing Threat to Young Workers
Asbestos: An Ongoing Threat to Young Workers
Asbestos, once widely used in industries, remains a persistent danger due to its presence in older structures and materials. Despite being banned, its extended delay before symptoms appear means exposure often appear decades later, leading to late-stage diagnoses.
Young People at Risk
Those under 40, especially in renovation or demolition sectors, face heightened risks from unknowingly disturbing asbestos containing materials (ACMs). Inadequate training and safety measures increase vulnerability, potentially leading to serious health issues like mesothelioma.
Why It’s Critical
The Committee on Carcinogenicity warns: “The younger the age of exposure, the greater the lifetime risk of developing asbestos-related diseases.” Limited medical screening in young populations makes delayed diagnoses and reduced treatment opportunities more likely.
5,000 deaths every year from exposure to asbestos
240 new cases are reported every year
40% of all occupational illness due to asbestos
The highest rates of asbestos-related illnesses are in Scotland and the North East of England
Action Steps Employers can help by:
- Sharing the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)’s three-minute video to educate young workers about asbestos dangers.
- Offering online asbestos awareness training to ensure workers are equipped with the knowledge to handle potential exposure situations safely.
Feel free to contact Gary Hewitt at The Health & Safety Service Ltd if you need any further support or guidance on Asbestos
Tel: 0845 163 4444
or
Email: info@thehss.co.uk
