Whenever we discuss the risk posed by asbestos, we must keep in mind that asbestos fibres can be found nearly everywhere in our environment (usually at low levels).
There is now information and cases directly relating health effects to low-level asbestos exposure, either from exposures in buildings or from our environment.
Those people working regularly (2 to 3 times per week) with asbestos containing products in an unsafe manner and performing tasks – such as drilling, cutting or making a product safe – are at a higher risk of contracting an asbestos related disease.
The top five on the list of people most likely to contract asbestos are:
Carpenters
Miners, Builders
Labourers
Seagoing Personnel
Railway Workers.
Did you know that housewives are number 18 on the list for getting an asbestos related disease?
They inhale the fibres from their partners clothing.
Asbestos related disease do not occur immediately and there is no fixed level of exposure that can trigger these diseases. Minimising exposure is the best safety precaution you can take.
Where do I go if I think I have an Asbestos Disease?
You are entitled to see the Asbestos Register
If you work in a building built prior to 1987, Asbestos may have been used in its construction. You are entitled to see the Asbestos Register.
Asbestos Register Controller
If you have not been inducted on Asbestos in your workplace – talk with your Asbestos Register Controller